Byzantine Earthenware 'Greek Fire' Hand Grenade Circa 9th-11th century AD This hollow earthenware vessel has a piriform body tapering to a point and a short domed neck with a circular opening. Remains of original pigment. Functioning as a hand grenade, this artefact was designed to be filled with Greek fire or other combustible substances. When thrown, the vessel would break upon impact, dispersing the contents and igniting upon contact with the target, making it a formidable weapon in Byzantine military strategies. Dimensions: 9cm x 10cm x 12cm Provenance: Private European Collection; formerly acquired from old UK and European collection formed since the 1970s. Disclaimer: NO SHIPPING OUTSIDE of THE EUROPEAN UNION. All items will be shipped from Belgium. The seller guarantees and can prove that the object was obtained legally. The seller was informed by Catawiki that they had to provide the documentation required by the laws and regulations in their country of residence. The seller guarantees and is entitled to sell/export this object. The seller will provide all provenance information known about the object to the buyer. The seller ensures that any necessary permits are/will be arranged. The seller will inform the buyer immediately about any delays in obtaining such permits. The seller will not ship outside the EU.