Large Iron Age Celtic Spearhead

With a prominently curved guard extending out from the ricasso, partly framing the hilt, thick midrib extending slightly above the ricasso. 286 grams, 35.5 cm



Ex Abelita family collection, 1980s-2000s.

The hilt of such swords was made separately and, unfortunately, is nearly always missing from the archaeological records. Similar daggers had a northern Iranian background, and excavated examples have been recorded from the South Caspian area from Tomadjan and Ghalekuti. Their chronology ranges from the late 2nd millennium B.C. to the 7th century B.C.

Ovoid in profile with a rounded base, a band of annulets and vertical lines on the upper body; intended to be filled with explosive liquid and a wick, and used as a hand grenade. 691 grams, 14.6 cm



From a specialist collection, London, UK, 1990-2000s. 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.

Curb-bit comprising two horizontal lateral bars with attachment points for the reins and bridle, U-shaped high-port and tongue-bar. 233 grams, 13.5 cm



Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.