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Peter Reynaers

A Byzantine earthenware vessel featuring a hollow globular body. To the top, the vessel rises into a short neck defined by a circular groove and tapers out into a small mouth with a thick rim. The shoulders and body of the grenade have been decorated with patterns of incised circles encompassing a central dot, alternating with vertical rows of three incised dots. The base has three concentric circles around a rounded point. Such items would have been filled with an explosive liquid known as ‘Greek Fire’ and used as a hand grenade. Earthy encrustations cover the surface. Signs of wear as consistent with age, such as scratches, pitting, and chips to the body. 

Greek fire, also referred to as liquid fire, was the most famous weapon in the Byzantine arsenal, saving the Byzantines for centuries from Arab attacks. Being used in both defence and attack situations, the weapon proved significant in the survival of the Byzantine Empire. The formula for the flammable mixture was closely guarded for centuries and irredeemably lost after the collapse of the Empire. Its precise composition thus remains unknown to this day, though research suggests the use of petroleum as a vital ingredient. Their average size and grip suggest the vessel being thrown by hand, in short-range conflicts, but this does not exclude the use of grenades in long-distance battles and at sea; as they were most likely hurled by catapults.

Measurements: (circa) L 11cm x W 9.5cm

Provenance: Ex private UK collection, acquired 1990s.


Circa 9th - 11th century AD

Byzantine Ceramic Hand Grenade  (No Reserve Price)

Archaeology

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Archangel Michael

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Byzantine Ceramic Hand Grenade (No Reserve Price)

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