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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 'Greek Fire' Ceramic Fire Bomb or Hand Grenade
10th-13th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £156
Piriform body decorated with concentric circles, with sphero-conical filler-hole, intended to be filled with explosive liquid and wick, used as a hand grenade. 660 grams, 12.8 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): £111
Mixed group of square trade weights with punched-point and impressed detailing. 32 grams total, 9-17 mm
Acquired since the 1970s. From the private collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman. -
Byzantine Gold Ring with Red Gemstone
4th-6th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £1,820
With slender hoop and ellipsoid bezel flanked at each shoulder by two granules, beaded wire collar, inset intaglio olive tree flanked by bullrushes. 3.79 grams, 17.74 mm overall, 14.14 mm internal diameter
Private collection of Mr S.A., Switzerland, 1990s, thence by descent.
