Byzantine Bronze Ring with Griffin

Each composed of a large bulb, hinged hoop above adorned with three granulated cells set with glass (one insert absent); four circular cells to the equator set with stones of alternating blue and red colour, granulated lozenges between, pyramid bulbs below adorned with granule clusters, collar of suspension loops above; articulate hinges. 8.87 grams total, 42 mm each



Acquired 1980-2015. Ex Abelita family collection.

Composed of a slender rectangular-section hoop and cruciform bezel with expanding round-section arms, central dome and granule to each quarter; accompanied by a custom-made display stand. 2.72 grams, 21.96 mm overall, 14.23 mm internal diameter (approximate size British G, USA 3 1/4, Europe 4.92, Japan 4)



Private European collection since the 1950s. Private collection, UK, 2010.

Of piriform shape, with raised inverted tear-shaped bulbs over the body; intended to be filled with explosive liquid and wick, used as a hand grenade. 932 grams, 15.2 cm



Acquired 1990s-early 2000s. East Anglian private collection. 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. Such were the γανωτα, vessels (sometimes also of bronze) used for Greek fire. They were called μεσαία kακαβιά or κυτροκακάβια where the former had a bulbous shape and the latter a more cylindrical form.