9th-11th century AD. A hollow formed ceramic vessel with piriform body, intended to be filled with explosive liquid and a wick, and used as a hand grenade; the body with three impressed bands of annulets, bands of circumferential lines to the body and base, four lug handles to the body, short neck with domed top. See Arendt, W. Irene Granaten des 13-14. Jahrhunderts, die an der Wolga gefunden sind, Zeitschrift fur Historische Waffen-und Kostumkunde, 11 (1926-8), p.42; Arendt, W. Die Spharisch-konischen Gefasse aus Gebranntem Ton, ibid.; Ayalon, D. Gunpowder and Firearms in the Mamluk Kingdom, London, 1956, p.16. 447 grams, 13cm (5"). Ex North London gentleman; formerly in a important collection of warfare artifacts; accompanied by an academic paper by military specialist Dr Raffaele D'Amato, date 15 July 2019 and entitled Eastern Roman Empire - Greek Fire Bomb or Hand Grenade (??????? k???????) 9th-11th century AD.