Byzantine Gold Openwork Pendant

Composed of weights of different types and sizes, including examples stamped with rosette motifs. 179 grams total, 16-24 mm



From the collection of H.N., Milton Keynes, 1980s-1990s.

Of piriform shape with a band of stamped roundels to the shoulder; intended to be filled with explosive liquid and wick and used as a hand grenade. 664 grams, 11.6 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.

Rectangular in plan with central recessed Christian cross, small recessed cross within a square to centre, pouring channel above; circular recess to each corner; soapstone. 163 grams, 67 mm



Acquired on the London art market, 1960s-1980s. Ex Hertfordshire, UK collector. The Kusmirek Collection, UK.