ITEM: Sling bullet with fulmen (thunderbolt) and scorpion MATERIAL: Lead CULTURE: Greek PERIOD: 4th Century A.D DIMENSIONS: 19 mm x 40 mm CONDITION: Good condition PROVENANCE: Ex Austrian private collection, acquired before 1990s Greek sling bullets, used primarily as projectiles in ancient warfare, offer intriguing insights into the military technology and tactics of the classical Greek period. These small, often spherical or oval-shaped stones were designed to be slung from a sling, a simple but effective ranged weapon that allowed soldiers to hurl projectiles with considerable force and accuracy. The bullets were typically made from materials like lead or stone and were sometimes hollowed out or shaped to optimize their aerodynamic properties. The design of these sling bullets was crucial for enhancing their effectiveness in combat, allowing for both defensive and offensive uses in battles and sieges. One of the most notable aspects of Greek sling bullets is their inscribed or molded decorations, which can include inscriptions, symbols, or images. These inscriptions often served practical purposes, such as marking ownership or indicating the unit or city-state of the sling bullet’s user. In some cases, inscriptions could also be used to convey threats or messages to enemies. The presence of these inscriptions provides valuable historical and cultural context, reflecting the importance of propaganda and psychological warfare in Greek military strategy. The personalization of sling bullets also underscores the role of individual soldiers and their contributions to broader military campaigns. The use and production of sling bullets also reflect broader aspects of Greek society and technology. The craftsmanship involved in creating these projectiles, including the casting of lead bullets and the shaping of stone, demonstrates advanced metalworking and stone-carving skills. The widespread discovery of Greek sling bullets in archaeological sites across the Mediterranean reveals their extensive use and distribution, highlighting the role of slingers as an integral part of Greek military forces. Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export license If you bid outside the European Union and win the item, we will have to apply for an export licence for your country and shipping will take 3 to 5 weeks.