Byzantine Bronze Pendant Cross

Ovoid in profile with domed filler hole, linear decoration; intended to be filled with explosive liquid and a wick, and used as a hand grenade. 269 grams, 85 mm



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.

With narrow triangular flange, low-relief geometric designs, three hexagonal plaques. 17.11 grams, 39.50 mm overall, 22.88 mm internal diameter (approximate size British Z+2, USA 13 1/4, Europe 31.31, Japan 30)



From a Cambridgeshire, UK, collection, 1990s.

Slender hoop and a large oval bezel bearing two stylised warrior figures holding spears. 4.66 grams, 21.55 mm overall, 19.72 mm internal diameter (approximate size British Q, USA 8, Europe 17.49, Japan 16)



Acquired on the UK and EU art market before 2000. From the private collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.

In this category of rings, the oval hoop gradually widens into a full shoulder and a massive, flattened bezel. The ellipsoidal bezel is decorated with stylised images, most probably, of military saints, who were asked for protection and blessing.