A Byzantine ceramic vessel featuring a hollow globular body with a pointed base. To the top, the vessel rises into a short narrow neck with a small mouth. The body of the piece has been decorated with vertical linear incisions, intersected by a horizontal encircling band across the middle. Such an item would have been filled with an explosive liquid known as ‘Greek Fire’ and used as a hand grenade. Earthy encrustations, scratches, indentations and chipping to the surface. Major chips to the mouth and shoulders. Greek fire, also referred to as liquid fire, was the most famous weapon of 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: L 15.3cm x W 10.4cm Provenance: Ex private UK collection, acquired 1990s.