Byzantine Bronze Buckle Plate

With lateral spurs to the hoop at the shoulders, round bezel with faux beaded wire collar, intaglio facing bust. 8.28 grams, 27.08 mm overall, 19.28 mm internal diameter (approximate size British R, USA 8 1/2, Europe 18 3/4, Japan 18)



German collection before 2000. Collection of Mr D.H. formed in UK, from the EU art market. Ex property of a Surrey gentleman.

Plano-convex in section with reserved scene including a facing figure flanked by two others with arms raised, a grid or lattice, bovine animal and other items. 22 grams, 45 mm



From the private collection of the late Mr S.M., 1969-1999, thence by descent.

Ovoid in profile with linear decoration; intended to be filled with explosive liquid and a wick, and used as a hand grenade. 805 grams, 13 cm



From an important specialist collection, London, UK, 1990s onwards. Accompanied by an academic paper by military specialist Dr Raffaele D'Amato, dated 15 July 2019 and titled 'Eastern Roman Empire - Greek Fire Bomb or Hand Grenade (μεσαίον kακάβιον) 9th-11th century AD'.

Apart from the use of siphons or manual flame-throwers called cheirosiphona, special corps of Roman soldiers employed terracotta grenades, in the form of small jars, abundantly evidenced in archaeological excavations. They were called μεσαία kακαβιά or κυτροκακάβια where the former had a bulbous shape and the latter a more cylindrical form.