Byzantine Empire Terracotta “Greek Fire” Hand Grenade

Description

Byzantine Empire terracotta “Greek Fire” Ceramic hand grenade. Piriform shaped body with impressed diamond and circle decoration. Intended for filling with an explosive liquid and a wick, and thrown as a grenade.

Origin

Byzantine Empire circa 9th to 11th century AD

Measurements

Length 10cm width 8.5cm. Height on stand 16.5cm

Condition

Good ancient condition. (Photos show what appears to be a crack, but its more an overlapping of the clay.  Presented on a custom made Perspex, timber and brass stand.