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LOT 1475
Byzantine 'Greek Fire' Ceramic Fire Bomb or Hand Grenade
9TH-11TH CENTURY A.D.
5 5/8 in. (722 grams, 14.2 cm).
A ceramic missile, piriform in profile with lattice pattern to the shoulder, domed filler-hole, intended to be filled with explosive liquid and wick, used as a hand grenade. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceFrom a military inspired collection formed from the 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'.
Cf. Arendt, W. I., Granaten des 13-14. Jahrhunderts, die an der Wolga gefunden sind, Zeitschrift fur Historische Waffen-und Kostumkunde, 11 (1926-8), p.42; cf. Arendt, W., Die Spharisch-konischen Gefäße aus Gebranntem Ton, ibid; cf. Ayalon, D., Gunpowder and Firearms in the Mamluk Kingdom, London, 1956, p.16.
FootnotesApart 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.
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LOT 1475
Byzantine 'Greek Fire' Ceramic Fire Bomb or Hand Grenade
Sold for (Inc. bp): £91
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Medieval 'Published' Iron Spur Collection
Circa 13th-17th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £143
Comprising: a rowel spur of early 13th century date with short neck; a 14th century U-shaped rowel spur with straight neck, five star rowel and squared terminals with fittings and a buckle; a 17th century drop neck spur with multi-pointed rowel, the arched body decorated with transversal lines and bilobate terminals. 280 grams total, 13.2-16.5 cm
From the collection of the famous author, writer and speaker, Gordon Bailey, Essex, UK; formed since 1968.
By the late 13th century A.D., rowel spurs in the West had virtually replaced the old single prick point type spur. The rowel spurs were more effective as a goad and at the same time less damaging to the flank of the horse. -
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Greek Style Bronze Helmet
20th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £221
Featuring hammered helmet detailing together with mythical creatures and coiled snakes. 1.5 kg, 30.5 cm high
Acquired 1990s-early 2000s. East Anglian private collection.
The helmet is modelled upon the pseudo-Corinthian models of antiquity. The gryphon represented refers to the wars between these mythological creatures and the Arimaspes. -
Mixed Iron Knife Collection
20th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £182
Including a double-bladed haladie with hide sheaths, a narrow stiletto with brass-mounted scabbard and other types. 525 grams total, 22.2-37.5 cm
From the family collection of a Maida Vale lady, UK.
