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LOT 1131
Christian 'Simon Stylite' Terracotta Pilgrim's Token
CIRCA 6TH-8TH CENTURY A.D.
1 in. (5.82 grams, 26 mm).
Plano-convex in profile with impressed design of a nimbate figure atop a post with ladder to one side, flanked by levitating angels, all within a pelletted border.
ProvenanceEx important Christian collection, 1970s.
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AUCTIONS:
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Byzantine 'Greek Fire' Ceramic Fire Bomb or Hand Grenade
9th-11th century A.D.Estimate: £100 - 140 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £50
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. -
Byzantine Bronze Ring with Saint and Crosses
Circa 11th-12th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £221
With D-section hoop, ellipsoidal bezel, intaglio facing nimbate figure holding a cross in each hand, possibly depicting Saint John the Baptist. 10.34 grams, 25.59 mm overall, 17.88 mm internal diameter (approximate size British P, USA 7 1/2, Europe 16.23, Japan 15)
German collection before 2000. Collection of Mr D.H. formed in UK, from the EU art market. Ex property of a Surrey gentleman. -
Byzantine Bronze Cross Pendant
10th-12th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £65
Expanding arm cross with traces of niello scroll decoration on the obverse. 5.3 grams, 36 mm
Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.
