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LOT 0208
Large Byzantine Bronze Bread Stamp
CIRCA 7TH-11TH CENTURY A.D.
5 in. (361 grams, 12.7 cm).
Featuring a crucifix-shaped monogram with reversed inscription in Greek letters written in two intersecting lines 'ΠET PX Y', translating to 'Peter, servant of God' most likely a benefaction to Jesus Christ from an individual; large applied handle to the reverse.
ProvenancePreviously in a German collection.
Ex Austrian collection.
In a London collection from the 1990s.
Accompanied by a previous catalogue information slip.
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AUCTIONS:
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Byzantine Bronze Weight Collection
Circa 8th-12th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £65
Including mainly barrel-shaped types. 225 grams total, 11-26 mm
Ex Simmons gallery, London, UK. Ex North London collection, 1990s. -
Byzantine 'Greek Fire' Ceramic Fire Bomb or Hand Grenade
9th-11th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £143
Piriform body decorated from concentric circles, with domed filler-hole, intended to be filled with explosive liquid and wick, used as a hand grenade. 1.01 kg, 15 cm
Acquired 1980-2015. Ex Abelita family 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. They were called μεσαία kακαβιά or κυτροκακάβια where the former had a bulbous shape and the latter a more cylindrical form. -
Byzantine Bronze Trade Weight Collection
Circa 6th-12th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £59
Mixed group of square trade weights of various typessome with pointillé or stamped detailing. 38.6 grams total, 8-17 mm
Acquired since the 1970s. From the private collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.
