Luristan Bronze Arrowhead Group

Comprising five rectangular-section doubled links with curved fetter and two loops to one end, barrel lock and hasp to the other. 2.2 kg, 87 cm

Fine condition; lock mechanism absent.

Acquired in the 1990s. From an important English collection.

Pear-shaped ceramic vessel with domed filler-hole, circumferential impressed bands to the shoulder and equator; intended to be filled with explosive liquid and wick, used as a hand grenade. 490 grams, 15 cm



Ex London, UK, collection, 1990s. 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.

Six-shot 7mm calibre double action Belgian proofed revolver with 55mm (2¼") barrel with hinged loading gate, extractor mounted at right side, folding trigger and fitted with plain wood butt scales; action stiff. 245 grams, 14 cm



Acquired from ROA Antique Arms Ltd. The Kusmirek Collection, UK. Accompanied by copy of the ROA listing.

Sold as an exempt item under Section 58 (2) of the Firearms Act, 1968, to be held as a curiosity or ornament. No license required but buyer must be over 18 years of age. Overseas bidders should note that, due to UK regulations governing export of all firearms, overseas buyers will need to make arrangements for shipping this lot out of the UK directly, by air freight, with a specialist company or agent.