Jacobean 'Published' Musket and Pistol Powder Measure Collection

With domed filler-hole, broad shoulder, alternating bands of crescent impressed detailing; intended to be filled with explosive liquid and wick, used as a hand grenade. 242 grams, 10.1 cm



From a collection acquired on the UK art market from various auction houses and collections mostly before 2000. From an important Cambridgeshire estate; thence by descent. 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.

Comprising an H-section tang with lateral wings, slender leaf-shaped head with spiked point. 28.37 grams, 18.5 cm



Ex London, UK, collection, 1990s.

Some texts related to ancient Mesopotamian wound dressing give detailed instructions for surgery with a scalpel, including post-operative care such as the dressing of operations sites with oilsoaked linen bandages. One scantily described operation is the cutting between the third and fourth ribs, counting from inferior to superior, to relieve pus collection in the pleura or liver.

Including musketballs, military buckles and frames, musket flints, buttons, a single-edged knife and other items in a hinged wooden case; many of these objects are published in the Detector Finds book series. 1.56 kg total, 32 x 25 x 7.5 cm including case



From the collection of the famous author, writer and speaker, Gordon Bailey, Essex, UK; formed since 1968.