Byzantine Bronze Ring with Inscription

Ovoid in profile with a domed filler hole; intended to be filled with explosive liquid and a wick, and used as a hand grenade. 349 grams, 88 mm



From an important specialist collection, London, UK, 1990s. 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 a facetted hoop, a rectangular bezel, and opposed profile busts (male and female). 3.60 grams, 24.13 mm overall, 21.06 mm internal diameter (approximate size British T 1/2, USA 9 3/4, Europe 21.89, Japan 21)



UK private collection before 2000. Acquired on the UK art market. Private collection, London, UK.

Round-section arms with knop finials, raised pellet at the centre and an integral suspension loop. 10.6 grams, 43 mm



Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.