Ancient Military Collection

 

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Catalogue No.: X01 Description: Bactrian Copper Axe Head, 3rd millennium BC. Size: 175 x 73mm.

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Catalogue No.: X02 Description: Medieval Lombard Type Axe Head. c 15th Century. Iron. Medieval England, as excavated from a site near Canterbury. Size: 287 x 47mm.

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Catalogue No.: X03 Description: Bactrian Copper Axe Head, 3rd millennium BC. Size: 254 x 57mm.

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Catalogue No.: X04 Description: Medieval Axe/Adze Head. c 15th Century. Iron. Medieval England, as excavated from a site near Canterbury. Size: 237 x 45mm.

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Catalogue No.: X05 Description: Bactrian lead axe head of ceremonial form, exquisitely styled so the axe head forms the tail of the bird and the other terminal the head, 3rd millennium BC. Size: 122 x 45mm.

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Catalogue No.: X06 Description: Luristan Bronze spike-butted ceremonial axe head, late 2nd millennium BC. Size: 80 x 38mm.

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Catalogue No.: X07 Description: Bactrian Copper Axe Head, 3rd millennium BC. Size: 100 x 47mm.

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Catalogue No.: X08 Description: Luristan Bronze spike-butted ceremonial axe head, late 2nd millennium BC. Size: 130 x 65mm.

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Catalogue No.: X09 Description: Bactrian Copper Axe Head, 3rd millennium BC. Size: 40 x 110mm.

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Catalogue No.: X10 Description: Bactrian Copper Axe Head, 3rd millennium BC. Size: 70 x 35mm.

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Catalogue No.: X11 Description: Early Indian polished stone axe head, 1st millennium BC. Size: 43 x 38mm.

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Catalogue No.: X12 Description: Early Indian polished stone axe head, 1st millennium BC. Size: 58 x 50mm.

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Catalogue No.: X13 Description: Early Indian polished stone axe head, 1st millennium BC. Size: 43 x 34mm.

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Catalogue No.: X14 Description: Early Indian polished stone axe head, 1st millennium BC. Size: 82 x 59mm.

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Catalogue No.: X15 Description: Early Indian polished stone axe head, 1st millennium BC. Size: 52 x 38mm.

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Catalogue No.: X16 Description: Early Indian polished stone axe head, 1st millennium BC. Size: 70 x 49mm.

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Catalogue No.: X17 Description: Early Indian polished stone axe head, 1st millennium BC. Size: 61 x 44mm.

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Catalogue No.: X18 Description: Luristan Bronze spike-butted ceremonial axe head, late 2nd millennium BC. This ancient axe head is in very good condition with a fine blue-green patina and comes with custom-made wooden staff. The blade of this axe is set at an angle that made it impractical for use, so it was presumably made specially to be left either in a grave or as a votive offering in a shrine or sanctuary. Size: 205 x 79mm.

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Catalogue No.: X19 Description: Luristan Bronze ceremonial axe head, late 2nd millennium BC. Size: 145 x 70mm.

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Catalogue No.: X20 Description: Luristan Bronze ceremonial axe head, late 2nd millennium BC. Size: 130 x 50mm.

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Catalogue No.: X21 Description: Luristan Bronze spike-butted ceremonial axe head, late 2nd millennium BC. Size: 70 x 90mm.

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Catalogue No.: X22 Description: Luristan Bronze ceremonial axe head, late 2nd millennium BC. Size: 130 x 55mm.

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Catalogue No.: X23 Description: Luristan Bronze spike-butted ceremonial pick or axe, late 2nd millennium BC. Size: 190 x 70mm.

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Catalogue No.: X24 Description: Luristan Bronze spike-butted ceremonial axe head, late 2nd millennium BC. Size: 215 x 64mm.

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Catalogue No.: X25 Description: Luristan Bronze spike-butted ceremonial axe head, late 2nd millennium BC. Size: 205 x 57mm.

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Catalogue No.: X26 Description: Bactrian lead mace head, 3rd millennium BC. Size: 47 x 49mm.

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Catalogue No.: X27 Description: Bactrian polished stone mace head, 3rd millennium BC. Size: 62 x 51mm.

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Catalogue No.: X28 Description: Luristan bronze spiked mace head, late 2nd millennium BC. Size: 105 x 89mm.

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Catalogue No.: X29 Description: Luristan bronze spiked mace head, late 2nd millennium BC. Size: 73 x 89mm.

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Catalogue No.: X30 Description: Bactrian lead mace head, 3rd millennium BC. Size: 77 x 69mm.

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Catalogue No.: X31 Description: Bactrian volcanic stone mace head, 3rd millennium BC. It is mounted on a custom-made wooden staff. A mace head, fixed to a wooden or metal staff, was an early weapon. By the time of this version, however, they had become symbols of authority, and axes were the main weapons used in warfare. Maces were commonly dedicated to the gods who are often shown wielding one on cylinder seals or sculptures. Size: head 91 x 69mm.

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Catalogue No.: X32 Description: Luristan bronze mace head, late 2nd millennium BC. Size: 44 x 66mm.

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Catalogue No.: X33 Description: Bactrian polished stone mace head, 3rd millennium BC. Size: 46 x 80mm.

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Catalogue No.: X34 Description: Bactrian polished stone mace head, 3rd millennium BC. Size: 38 x 48mm.

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Catalogue No.: X35 Description: Bactrian bronze mace head, 3rd millennium BC. Size: 121 x 50mm.

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Catalogue No.: X36 Description: Bactrian polished stone mace head, 3rd millennium BC. Size: 86 x 38mm.

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Catalogue No.: X37 Description: Bactrian polished stone mace head, 3rd millennium BC. Size: 70 x 66mm.

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Catalogue No.: X38 Description: Bactrian bronze mace head, 3rd millennium BC. Size: 127 x 66mm.

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Catalogue No.: X39 Description: Bactrian bronze mace head, 3rd millennium BC. Size: 195 x 47mm.

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Catalogue No.: X40 Description: Bactrian polished stone mace head, 3rd millennium BC. Size: 69 x 93mm.

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Catalogue No.: X41 Description: Ancient Chinese Iron Sword. Imperial China - Eastern Han Period (AD 25-220). Classical Eastern Han single-edged long sword (Dao) with loop handle, in iron with some adherence of the original scabbard material including wood, hemp, linen and silk as well as mineral pigment. The switch by the Chinese military from double-edged swords (Jian) to single-edged swords (Dao) during this period related to the extensive use of Chinese cavalry against proto-Mongol nomads. In mounted warfare, slashing type action became more important than thrusting. However, the Jian remained and continued to be used throughout the various dynasties by generals, who strapped on the Jain as a symbol of their rank. The experience gained in bronze casting had made it easy for the ancient Chinese to proceed at an early date to the casting of iron. The art of casting had been mastered by the 6th Century BC. Subsequent advances in iron and steel metallurgy were not confined to cast iron and by the 4th Century BC, the Chinese were already able to produce steel by heating and alloying irons of different carbon content. Gradually, as iron metallurgy progressed, steel weapons replaced those of bronze. It is rare for an early iron sword of this type and design to survive in this condition. Size: 880 x 50mm.

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Catalogue No.: X42 Description: Ancient Chinese Iron Sword. Zhou Dynasty - Warring States Period (480-221 BC). Extremely fine example of a 3rd Century BC Warring States Period broad sword in cast iron with a broad band bronze sword-guard (Hu-Shou). This piece is remarkable for its exceptional state of preservation and broad form, with evidence of use (and damage) in conflict, through the damaged portion half way down the blade on one edge. The experience gained in bronze casting had made it easy for the ancient Chinese to proceed at an early date to the casting of iron. The art of casting had been mastered by the 6th Century BC. Subsequent advances in iron and steel metallurgy were not confined to cast iron and by the 4th Century BC, the Chinese were already able to produce steel by heating and alloying irons of different carbon content. Gradually, as iron metallurgy progressed, steel weapons replaced those of bronze. It is rare for an early iron sword of this type and design to survive in this condition. Size: 940 x 50mm.

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Catalogue No.: X43 Description: Han Dynasty Sword, c. 200 BC. Size: 500 x 54mm.

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Catalogue No.: X44 Description: Ancient Chinese Iron Sword, Zhou Dynasty - Warring States Period (480 - 221 BC). (Similar to X42). Size: 1000 x 45mm.

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Catalogue No.: X45 Description: Ancient Chinese Iron Sword, Zhou Dynasty - Warring States Period (480 - 221 BC). (Similar to X42). Size: 860 x 55mm.

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Catalogue No.: X46 Description: Ancient Chinese Iron Sword, Zhou Dynasty - Warring States Period (480 - 221 BC). (Similar to X42). Size: 840 x 60mm.

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Catalogue No.: X47 Description: Chinese Warring States Iron Dagger with carved jade hilt-guard, c. 480 - 221 BC. Size: 285 x 50mm.

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Catalogue No.: X48 Description: Chinese Warring States Iron sword fragment, c. 480 - 221 BC. Size: 130 x 55mm.

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Catalogue No.: X49 Description: Chinese Warring States Iron Dagger with carved jade hilt-guard, c. 480 - 221 BC. Size: 245 x 45mm.

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Catalogue No.: X50 Description: Chinese Warring States Iron Dagger with carved stone hilt-guard, c. 480 - 221 BC. Size: 385 x 80mm.

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Catalogue No.: X51 Description: Chinese Warring States Iron Dagger with carved stone hilt-guard, c. 480 - 221 BC. Size: 435 x 85mm.

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Catalogue No.: X52 Description: Luristan Bronze Spearhead, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 315 x 40mm.

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Catalogue No.: X53 Description: Luristan Bronze Spearhead, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 315 x 45mm.

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Catalogue No.: X54 Description: Elamite Dagger. Early 2nd millennium BC. Size: 285 x 40mm.

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Catalogue No.: X55 Description: Luristan Bronze Dagger, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 310 x 25mm.

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Catalogue No.: X56 Description: Luristan Bronze Dagger, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 340 x 50mm.

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Catalogue No.: X57 Description: Luristan Bronze Spearhead, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 290 x 55mm.

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Catalogue No.: X58 Description: Luristan Bronze Spearhead, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 330 x 45mm.

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Catalogue No.: X59 Description: Luristan Bronze Spearhead, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 275 x 55mm.

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Catalogue No.: X60 Description: Luristan Bronze Dagger, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 260 x 32mm.

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Catalogue No.: X61 Description: Archaemenid socketted spearhead, c. 800 BC. Size: 343 x 20mm.

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Catalogue No.: X62 Description: Luristan Bronze Spearhead, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 295 x 40mm.

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Catalogue No.: X63 Description: Large stone slingshot projectile, 1st millennium BC. Size: 34 x 68mm.

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Catalogue No.: X64 Description: Roman lead slingshot projectile as recovered from a site at Zaragoza, Spain. c. 1st - 2nd century AD. Size: 39 x 18mm.

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Catalogue No.: X65 Description: Roman lead slingshot projectile as recovered from a site at Zaragoza, Spain. c. 1st - 2nd century AD. Size: 39 x 16mm.

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Catalogue No.: X66 Description: Roman lead slingshot projectile as recovered from a site at Zaragoza, Spain. c. 1st - 2nd century AD. Size: 32 x 17mm.

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Catalogue No.: X67 Description: Roman lead slingshot projectile as recovered from a site at Zaragoza, Spain. c. 1st - 2nd century AD. Size: 39 x 18mm.

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Catalogue No.: X68 Description: Roman lead slingshot projectile as recovered from a site at Zaragoza, Spain. c. 1st - 2nd century AD. Size: 40 x 15mm.

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Catalogue No.: X69 Description: Roman lead slingshot projectile as recovered from a site at Zaragoza, Spain. c. 1st - 2nd century AD. Size: 44 x 16mm.

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Catalogue No.: X70 Description: Roman lead slingshot projectile as recovered from a site at Zaragoza, Spain. c. 1st - 2nd century AD. Size: 35 x 19mm.

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Catalogue No.: X71 Description: Luristan Bronze Spearhead, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 255 x 40mm.

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Catalogue No.: X72 Description: Luristan Bronze Spearhead, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 162 x 20mm.

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Catalogue No.: X73 Description: Luristan Bronze Spearhead, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 160 x 45mm.

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Catalogue No.: X74 Description: Luristan Bronze Spearhead, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 295 x 43mm.

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Catalogue No.: X75 Description: Luristan Bronze Spearhead, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 220 x 35mm.

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Catalogue No.: X76 Description: Luristan Bronze Spearhead, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 265 x 35mm.

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Catalogue No.: X77 Description: Western Asiatic Bronze Short-sword, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 455 x 54mm.

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Catalogue No.: X78 Description: Chinese Han Dynasty Cast Sword, c. 200 BC. Size: 475 x 42mm.

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Catalogue No.: X79 Description: Luristan Bronze Dagger, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 420 x 35mm.

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Catalogue No.: X80 Description: Western Asiatic Bronze Short-sword, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 420 x 45mm.

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Catalogue No.: X81 Description: Roman bronze short-sword. Size: 350 x 55mm.

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Catalogue No.: X82 Description: Western Asiatic Bronze / iron short-sword, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 435 x 60mm.

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Catalogue No.: X83 Description: Western Asiatic Bronze Short-sword, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 440 x 50mm.

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Catalogue No.: X84 Description: Western Asiatic dirk, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 390 x 25mm.

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Catalogue No.: X85 Description: Luristan Bronze Spearhead, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 435 x70mm.

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Catalogue No.: X86 Description: Luristan Bronze Dagger, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 482 x 30mm.

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Catalogue No.: X87 Description: Western Asiatic dagger, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 440 x 50mm.

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Catalogue No.: X88 Description: Luristan Bronze Spearhead, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 520 x 50mm.

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Catalogue No.: X89 Description: Western Asiatic dagger, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 400 x 40mm.

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Catalogue No.: X91 Description: Luristan bronze short-sword / dagger, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 470 x 37mm.

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Catalogue No.: X92 Description: Luristan Bronze Dagger, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 320 x 37mm.

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Catalogue No.: X93 Description: Western Asiatic Bronze spear-tip, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 390 x 58mm.

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Catalogue No.: X94 Description: Luristan Bronze Dagger, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 310 x 25mm.

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Catalogue No.: X95 Description: Luristan Bronze Dagger, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 350 x 40mm.

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Catalogue No.: X96 Description: Luristan Bronze Dagger, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 335 x 40mm.

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Catalogue No.: X97 Description: Luristan Bronze Dagger, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 330 x 40mm.

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Catalogue No.: X98 Description: Luristan Bronze Dagger, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 290 x 30mm.

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Catalogue No.: X99 Description: Western Asiatic Bronze spear-head, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 360 x 42mm.

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Catalogue No.: X100 Description: Western Asiatic dagger, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 337 x 30mm.

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Catalogue No.: X101 Description: Luristan Bronze Spearhead, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 344 x 65mm.

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Catalogue No.: X102 Description: Western Asiatic dagger, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 284 x 27mm.

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Catalogue No.: X103 Description: Luristan Bronze Spearhead, early 1st millennium BC. Size: 375 x 60mm.

Image Code X104

Catalogue No.: X104 Description: Chinese Warring States Period bronze sword with inscription in Chinese characters down the blade and with a decorative pommel. 480 - 221 BC. Size: 640 x 40mm.

Image Code X105 Image Code X105a

Catalogue No.: X105 Description: Amlash bronze long-sword with bifurcated pommel, northern Iran, Amlash, early 1st millennium BC. The condition of this bronze sword is exceptional, with a beautiful pristine blue-green verdigris patina, making this piece a magnificent display item. This fine sword belongs to the so-called Amlash culture of Gilan province in north-west Iran. This was one of the most distinctive Iranian cultures of the late second and early first millennia BC. Size: 800 x 60mm.

Image Code X106

Catalogue No.: X106 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 129mm X 99mm dia.

Image Code X107

Catalogue No.: X107 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 153mm X 74mm dia.

Image Code X108

Catalogue No.: X108 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 123mm X 99mm dia.

Image Code X109

Catalogue No.: X109 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 109mm X 89mm dia.

Image Code X110

Catalogue No.: X110 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 145mm X 115mm dia.

Image Code X111

Catalogue No.: X111 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 152mm X 117mm dia.

Image Code X112

Catalogue No.: X112 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 158mm X 76mm dia.

Image Code X113

Catalogue No.: X113 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 107mm X 81mm dia.

Image Code X114

Catalogue No.: X114 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 175mm X 90mm dia.

Image Code X115

Catalogue No.: X115 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 132mm X 107mm dia.

Image Code X116

Catalogue No.: X116 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 119mm X 85mm dia.

Image Code X117

Catalogue No.: X117 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 119mm X 88mm dia.

Image Code X118

Catalogue No.: X118 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 144mm X 82mm dia.

Image Code X119

Catalogue No.: X119 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 146mm X 82mm dia.

Image Code X120

Catalogue No.: X120 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 151mm X 68mm dia.

Image Code X121

Catalogue No.: X121 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 114mm X 92mm dia.

Image Code X122

Catalogue No.: X122 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 174mm X 79mm dia.

Image Code X123

Catalogue No.: X123 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 125mm X 88mm dia.

Image Code X124

Catalogue No.: X124 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 116mm X 90mm dia.

Image Code X125

Catalogue No.: X125 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 144mm X 77mm dia.

Image Code X126

Catalogue No.: X126 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 127mm X 90mm dia.

Image Code X127

Catalogue No.: X127 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 123mm X 90mm dia.

Image Code X128

Catalogue No.: X128 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 110mm X 91mm dia.

Image Code X129

Catalogue No.: X129 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 120mm X 102mm dia.

Image Code X130

Catalogue No.: X130 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 105mm X 59mm dia.

Image Code X131

Catalogue No.: X131 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 119mm X 91mm dia.

Image Code X132

Catalogue No.: X132 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 127mm X 91mm dia.

Image Code X133

Catalogue No.: X133 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 139mm X 98mm dia.

Image Code X134

Catalogue No.: X134 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 100mm X 80mm dia.

Image Code X135

Catalogue No.: X135 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 130mm X 75mm dia.

Image Code X136

Catalogue No.: X136 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 117mm X 87mm dia.

Image Code X137

Catalogue No.: X137 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 127mm X 62mm dia.

Image Code X138

Catalogue No.: X138 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 170mm X 65mm dia.

Image Code X139

Catalogue No.: X139 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 123mm X 99mm dia.

Image Code X140

Catalogue No.: X140 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 141mm X 88mm dia.

Image Code X141

Catalogue No.: X141 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 156mm X 71mm dia.

Image Code X142

Catalogue No.: X142 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 170mm X 71mm dia.

Image Code X143

Catalogue No.: X143 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 168mm X 86mm dia.

Image Code X144

Catalogue No.: X144 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 136mm X 93mm dia.

Image Code X145

Catalogue No.: X145 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 108mm X 89mm dia.

Image Code X146

Catalogue No.: X146 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 169mm X 74mm dia.

Image Code X147

Catalogue No.: X147 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 112mm X 90mm dia.

Image Code X148

Catalogue No.: X148 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 123mm X 87mm dia.

Image Code X149

Catalogue No.: X149 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 185mm X 143mm dia.

Image Code X150

Catalogue No.: X150 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 77mm X 55mm dia.

Image Code X151

Catalogue No.: X151 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 167mm X 73mm dia.

Image Code X152

Catalogue No.: X152 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 150mm X 100mm dia.

Image Code X153

Catalogue No.: X153 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 137mm X 92mm dia.

Image Code X154

Catalogue No.: X154 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 178mm X 96mm dia.

Image Code X155

Catalogue No.: X155 Description: Islamic sphero-conical vessel, probably an early pottery grenade.      c. 10th - 12th century AD. The sphero-conical vessel style of objects form a distinct group, homogeneously brought together by their shape and material. Often these objects are the same size, however very large and very small examples have been documented. The form is characterised by the sphero-conical shape of the body. The outline varies, but almost all have a narrow neck, usually with a groove beneath the lip that would be used to tie a stopper down, and the opening is usually no more than a few millimetres in diameter. Colour texture and finish will vary, but most often these objects are dark, fine grained and compact. Firing appears to be high as to render the object impenetrable, so there is no need for waterproofing. The thickness of the walls gives the object weight and strength, and no doubt helps to improve liquid tightness. These objects appear throughout the Islamic world in the same form from east to west. Over time the use of these curious vessels have sparked an impassioned debate. Many of these objects appear to have been thrown and others have a mould-formed upper section. Rumoured uses of these objects include; hand grenades or incendiary bombs, to be thrown full of naphtha or petroleum; a perfume flask; a fire-blower; a mercury bottle; a beer or wine flask; a plumb bob or a rosewater sprinkler. One recently found at Samarra was said to have an inscription stating that it was meant to contain vintage wine. It is clear however that these objects can serve a multitude of purposes and any of these proposals could be correct. However, one may ponder why such a particular and laborious construction would be necessary to simply provide the required weight for a plumb bob? Whatever the case may be, Savage Smith (1997) explains; Sphero-conical vessels appear to be confined to the early and mediaeval Islamic periods – whatever their function, in later periods either different vessels were found appropriate, or the uses they served became extinct. Size: 151mm X 90mm dia.

Image Code X156 to X175 Composite

Catalogue No.: X155 Description: Eurasian Iron Arrow Heads. 20 pieces. Size: 151mm X 90mm dia.

Image Code X156

Catalogue No.: X156 Description: Eurasian Iron Arrow Head. Well preserved and rare tanged iron arrowheads of assorted form dating from the 4th to 12th Centuries AD, as used by various cultures including Kidarites, Hephthalites (White Huns) and invading tribespeople of the Mongol empire. Size: 134 x 15mm.

Image Code X157

Catalogue No.: X157 Description: Eurasian Iron Arrow Head. Well preserved and rare tanged iron arrowheads of assorted form dating from the 4th to 12th Centuries AD, as used by various cultures including Kidarites, Hephthalites (White Huns) and invading tribespeople of the Mongol empire. Size: 100 x 16mm.

Image Code X158

Catalogue No.: X158 Description: Eurasian Iron Arrow Head. Well preserved and rare tanged iron arrowheads of assorted form dating from the 4th to 12th Centuries AD, as used by various cultures including Kidarites, Hephthalites (White Huns) and invading tribespeople of the Mongol empire. Size: 97 x 7mm.

Image Code X159

Catalogue No.: X159 Description: Eurasian Iron Arrow Head. Well preserved and rare tanged iron arrowheads of assorted form dating from the 4th to 12th Centuries AD, as used by various cultures including Kidarites, Hephthalites (White Huns) and invading tribespeople of the Mongol empire. Size: 134 x 32mm.

Image Code X160

Catalogue No.: X160 Description: Eurasian Iron Arrow Head. Well preserved and rare tanged iron arrowheads of assorted form dating from the 4th to 12th Centuries AD, as used by various cultures including Kidarites, Hephthalites (White Huns) and invading tribespeople of the Mongol empire. Size: 161 x 33mm.

Image Code X161

Catalogue No.: X161 Description: Eurasian Iron Arrow Head. Well preserved and rare tanged iron arrowheads of assorted form dating from the 4th to 12th Centuries AD, as used by various cultures including Kidarites, Hephthalites (White Huns) and invading tribespeople of the Mongol empire. Size: 119 x 7mm.

Image Code X162

Catalogue No.: X162 Description: Eurasian Iron Arrow Head. Well preserved and rare tanged iron arrowheads of assorted form dating from the 4th to 12th Centuries AD, as used by various cultures including Kidarites, Hephthalites (White Huns) and invading tribespeople of the Mongol empire. Size: 91 x 30mm.

Image Code X163

Catalogue No.: X163 Description: Eurasian Iron Arrow Head. Well preserved and rare tanged iron arrowheads of assorted form dating from the 4th to 12th Centuries AD, as used by various cultures including Kidarites, Hephthalites (White Huns) and invading tribespeople of the Mongol empire. Size: 117 x 26mm.

Image Code X164

Catalogue No.: X164 Description: Eurasian Iron Arrow Head. Well preserved and rare tanged iron arrowheads of assorted form dating from the 4th to 12th Centuries AD, as used by various cultures including Kidarites, Hephthalites (White Huns) and invading tribespeople of the Mongol empire. Size: 61 x 18mm.

Image Code X165

Catalogue No.: X165 Description: Eurasian Iron Arrow Head. Well preserved and rare tanged iron arrowheads of assorted form dating from the 4th to 12th Centuries AD, as used by various cultures including Kidarites, Hephthalites (White Huns) and invading tribespeople of the Mongol empire. Size: 90 x 18mm.

Image Code X166

Catalogue No.: X166 Description: Eurasian Iron Arrow Head. Well preserved and rare tanged iron arrowheads of assorted form dating from the 4th to 12th Centuries AD, as used by various cultures including Kidarites, Hephthalites (White Huns) and invading tribespeople of the Mongol empire. Size: 74 x 12mm.

Image Code X167

Catalogue No.: X167 Description: Eurasian Iron Arrow Head. Well preserved and rare tanged iron arrowheads of assorted form dating from the 4th to 12th Centuries AD, as used by various cultures including Kidarites, Hephthalites (White Huns) and invading tribespeople of the Mongol empire. Size: 66 x 12mm.

Image Code X168

Catalogue No.: X168 Description: Eurasian Iron Arrow Head. Well preserved and rare tanged iron arrowheads of assorted form dating from the 4th to 12th Centuries AD, as used by various cultures including Kidarites, Hephthalites (White Huns) and invading tribespeople of the Mongol empire. Size: 122 x 8mm.

Image Code X169

Catalogue No.: X169 Description: Eurasian Iron Arrow Head. Well preserved and rare tanged iron arrowheads of assorted form dating from the 4th to 12th Centuries AD, as used by various cultures including Kidarites, Hephthalites (White Huns) and invading tribespeople of the Mongol empire. Size: 47 x 20mm.

Image Code X170

Catalogue No.: X170 Description: Eurasian Iron Arrow Head. Well preserved and rare tanged iron arrowheads of assorted form dating from the 4th to 12th Centuries AD, as used by various cultures including Kidarites, Hephthalites (White Huns) and invading tribespeople of the Mongol empire. Size: 54 x 16mm.

Image Code X171

Catalogue No.: X171 Description: Eurasian Iron Arrow Head. Well preserved and rare tanged iron arrowheads of assorted form dating from the 4th to 12th Centuries AD, as used by various cultures including Kidarites, Hephthalites (White Huns) and invading tribespeople of the Mongol empire. Size: 86 x 17mm.

Image Code X172

Catalogue No.: X172 Description: Eurasian Iron Arrow Head. Well preserved and rare tanged iron arrowheads of assorted form dating from the 4th to 12th Centuries AD, as used by various cultures including Kidarites, Hephthalites (White Huns) and invading tribespeople of the Mongol empire. Size: 87 x 11mm.

Image Code X173

Catalogue No.: X173 Description: Eurasian Iron Arrow Head. Well preserved and rare tanged iron arrowheads of assorted form dating from the 4th to 12th Centuries AD, as used by various cultures including Kidarites, Hephthalites (White Huns) and invading tribespeople of the Mongol empire. Size: 102 x 8mm.

Image Code X174

Catalogue No.: X174 Description: Eurasian Iron Arrow Head. Well preserved and rare tanged iron arrowheads of assorted form dating from the 4th to 12th Centuries AD, as used by various cultures including Kidarites, Hephthalites (White Huns) and invading tribespeople of the Mongol empire. Size: 89 x 7mm.

Image Code X175 to X179, X181

Catalogue No.: X175 to X179 and X181 Description: Proto-Bactrian Bronze Spear Tips. 43 pieces. Size: 129 x 24mm.

Image Code X175

Catalogue No.: X175 Description: Early Bronze Arrowhead. Luristan Culture, 1200-800 BC. Size: 150 x 22mm.

Image Code X176

Catalogue No.: X176 Description: Proto-Bactrian Bronze Spear Tip. Rare, very early type, c 3000 BC (130 mm). (42.6 gm). Size: 129 x 24mm.

Image Code X177

Catalogue No.: X177 Description: Early Bronze Arrowhead. Luristan Culture, 1200-800 BC. Size: 105 x 17mm.

Image Code X178

Catalogue No.: X178 Description: Bactrian Bronze Arrowhead. c 2000 BC. Size: 59 x 64mm.

Image Code X179

Catalogue No.: X179 Description: Bactrian Bronze Arrowhead. c 2000 BC. Size: 48 x 23mm.

Image Code X180

Catalogue No.: X180 Description: Moghul Steel Lance/Arrowhead. 16th-18th Century AD. The Moghul conquerors, Islamic Persians, unified India, infusing fresh cultural life and initiating a period of Indian artistic splendour in painting and architecture. The first of the invaders was Babur (1494-1530). This superb lance/spearhead possesses a socketed shaft section. 87 mm. Size: 86 x 14mm.

Image Code X181

Catalogue No.: X181 Description: Ancient Bronze Arrowheads. Better quality pieces from various cultures dating back at least 2000 years. 38 pieces. Size: 33 X 11mm average.

Image Code X182

Catalogue No.: X182 Description: Indo-Persian Punch Dagger (Katar). Very early piece in iron with ornate heavily ribbed blade, the tip strengthened for use as a piercing weapon against chain mail and the hilt with four cross-members. Size: 348mm.

Image Code X183

Catalogue No.: X183 Description: Indo-Persian Punch Dagger (Katar). Ornate early steel piece with ornate and heavily ribbed blade, the tip strengthened for use as a piercing weapon against chain mail and the hilt with two decorative crossbars. Size: 378mm.

Image Code X184

Catalogue No.: X184 Description: Indo-Persian Punch Dagger (Katar). Early piece of fine steel construction, forged in two pieces, the blade with bold ribbing and channelling and thickening at the tapered point for strengthening in use as a piercing weapon against chain mail. Rarely seen with original wood and cloth scabbard with silk and silver wire embroidered bands. Size: 372mm.

Image Code X185

Catalogue No.: X185 Description: Western Asiatic Bronze Spearhead, 1st millennium BC. Size: mm.

Image Code X186

Catalogue No.: X186 Description: Western Asiatic Bronze Dagger 1st millennium BC. Size: mm.

Image Code X187 Image Code X187a

Catalogue No.: X187 Description: Chine Han Dynasty elaborate bronze sword hilt, c. 200 BC. Size: mm.

Image Code X188

Catalogue No.: X188 Description: Western Asiatic Bronze Dagger with leaf-shaped blade, Early 1st millennium BC. Size: mm.

Image Code G01

Catalogue No.: G01 Description: Cavalry Drill Sabre. Size: L950mm.

Image Code G02

Catalogue No.: G02 Description: Parang Nabur-Malayan. 19th Century. Brass Garuda Pommel. Size: L590mm.

Image Code G03

Catalogue No.: G03 Description: Cavalry Drill Sabre. Late 19th century. Size: L710mm.

Image Code G09

Catalogue No.: G09 Description: Early African Flintlock Rifle in steel and wood. Size: L1060mm.

Image Code G10

Catalogue No.: G10 Description: Early African Flintlock Rifle in steel and wood. Size: L1200mm.

Image Code G11

Catalogue No.: G11 Description: Early African Flintlock Rifle in steel and wood. Size: L1285mm.

Image Code G12

Catalogue No.: G12 Description: Early African Flintlock Rifle in steel and wood. Size: L1289mm.

Image Code G13

Catalogue No.: G13 Description: Early African Flintlock Rifle in steel and wood. Size: L1284mm.

Image Code G16

Catalogue No.: G16 Description: Small custom-made knife with folded meteorite iron blade and polished mammoth ivory handle. Size: 198mm.

Image Code G17

Catalogue No.: G17 Description: North American custom-made knife with handle of fossil antler. Size: 340 x 90mm.

Image Code G18

Catalogue No.: G18 Description: North American custom-made knife with handle of fossil antler and brass. Size: 340 x 51mm.

Image Code G21

Catalogue No.: G21 Description: Ancient Chinese Iron Sword. Zhou Dynasty - Warring States Period (475-221 BC). Rare extremely long iron sword with long tang. The Chinese, from probably at least the 6th Century BC, could smelt and cast iron into weapons, chariot parts and tools. Foundry remains show that the industry was large, and that mass-production methods were standard. Iron swords such as this piece, have not survived to any great degree and are now considered rare. Size: L1100mm.

Image Code G22

Catalogue No.: G22 Description: Ancient Chinese iron sword. Zhou Dynasty - Warring States Period (475-221BC). Rare iron sword with long tang and intact ornamental bronze guard. The Chinese, from probably at least the 6th century BC, could smelt and cast iron into weapons, chariot parts and tools. Foundry remains show that the industry was large, and that mass-production methods were standard. Iron swords such as this piece, have not survived to any great degree and are now considered rare. Size: L925mm.

Image Code G23

Catalogue No.: G23 Description: Ancient Chinese Iron Sword. Zhou Dynasty - Warring States Period (475-221 BC). Rare iron sword with long tang and intact ornamental sword guard in silver. The Chinese, from probably at least the 6th century BC, could smelt and cast iron into weapons, chariot parts and tools. Foundry remains show that the industry was large, and that mass-production methods were standard. Iron swords such as this piece, have not survived to any great degree and are now considered rare. Size: L1050mm.

Image Code G24

Catalogue No.: G24 Description: Ancient Chinese Iron Sword. Western Han Dynasty (206 BC - AD 9). Rare single edge iron sword with loop handle. The Chinese, from probably at least the 6th century BC, could smelt and cast iron into weapons, chariot parts and tools. Foundry remains show that the industry was large, and that mass-production methods were standard. Iron swords such as this piece, have not survived to any great degree and are now considered rare. Size: L940mm.

Image Code G25

Catalogue No.: G25 Description: Ancient Chinese Iron Sword. Western Han Dynasty (206 BC - AD 9). Rare ancient iron sword with intact white jade ornamental guard carved in relief in the form of a hydra / gryphon. The Chinese, from probably at least the 6th century BC, could smelt and cast iron into weapons, chariot parts and tools. Foundry remains show that the industry was large, and that mass-production methods were standard. Iron swords such as this piece, have not survived to any great degree and are now considered rare. Size: L650mm.

Image Code G27

Catalogue No.: G27 Description: Burmese Dao Sword and Scabbard, early 20th century. Size: L880mm.

Image Code G28

Catalogue No.: G28 Description: Confederate Sword. USA. Size: L900mm.

Image Code G156

Catalogue No.: G156 Description: Iron Cannonball. English/French naval use, c 1820. Size: 78mm dia.

Image Code G157

Catalogue No.: G157 Description: Musket Ball/Shot Mould Tongs. Steel tongs of early French manufacture for the pouring of ten molten lead shot, c 1800 (263 mm). Size: 362 X 60mm.

Image Code G158

Catalogue No.: G158 Description: Early Bullet Mould. Early hand-made European model for the hand-held casting of lead musket balls, with built-in lug cutter and diameter gauge. Steel. c. 1800. Size: 136 X 42mm.

Image Code H30

Catalogue No.: H30 Description: Early Javanese Kris knife with blade of alloyed meteorite iron and dog tooth tassles to the scabbard and hilt. Size: L400mm.

Image Code H31

Catalogue No.: H31 Description: Malay Sword (Klewang). Size: L330mm.

Image Code H32

Catalogue No.: H32 Description: Indo Persian Double-edged Knife. Size: L280mm.

Image Code H33

Catalogue No.: H33 Description: North African Arm Knife in Scabbard. Early Moroccan. Size: L290mm.

Image Code H34

Catalogue No.: H34 Description: Malay Chopper with Bone Handle Size: H260 x W50mm.

Image Code H35

Catalogue No.: H35 Description: Klewang Celebes. Size: L620mm.

Image Code H36

Catalogue No.: H36 Description: Gida from Soudam, Tributoupouri. Size: L530mm.

Image Code H37

Catalogue No.: H37 Description: Gida from Soudam, Tributoupouri. Size: L410mm.

Image Code H44

Catalogue No.: H44 Description: Klewang, Malay. Size: L560mm.

Image Code H47

Catalogue No.: H47 Description: Ceremonial Sword. Klewang, Malay. Size: L720mm.

Image Code H50

Catalogue No.: H50 Description: Dyak, Mandau. Parang, Malayan. Size: L660mm.

Image CodeH58

Catalogue No.: H58 Description: Australian Aboriginal Hardwood club / digging stick. Size: L1210mm.

Image Code H99

Catalogue No.: H99 Description: Head-hunters Sword. Mandu. Dayak (Borneo). Size: L660mm.

Image Code H101

Catalogue No.: H101 Description: Malay spear and sheath with leather embellishment and dog tooth tassels. Size: L830mm.

Image Code H106

Catalogue No.: H106 Description: Southern African ritual implement with iron axe / spear tip. Size: L640mm.

Image Code H107

Catalogue No.: H107 Description: Borneo Mandau and Short Spear with Scabbard. Size: L580mm.

Image Code H115

Catalogue No.: H115 Description: African staff. Size: L450mm.

Image Code H235

Catalogue No.: H235 Description: Malay steel Adze-Head with wooden sheath / cover. Size: L340mm.

Image Code H267

Catalogue No.: H267 Description: Mandu Head-hunters Sword. Dayak (Borneo). Size: L650mm.

Image Code H284

Catalogue No.: H284 Description: Indo-Persian Jambiya style Dagger. Size: L280mm.

Image Code H294

Catalogue No.: H294 Description: Borneo Biliong Axe. Size: 320 X 120mm.

Image Code H565

Catalogue No.: H565 Description: Katar Punch Dagger. Southern India. (Mail piercing). Size: L380mm.

Image Code H566

Catalogue No.: H566 Description: Katar Punch Dagger. Southern India. (Mail piercing). Size: L410mm.

Image Code H567

Catalogue No.: H567 Description: Katar Punch Dagger. Southern India. (Mail piercing). Size: L310mm.

Image Code H573

Catalogue No.: H573 Description: Chinese Steel Sword (Dao) Late 19th Century. Size: L710mm.

Image Code H588

Catalogue No.: H588 Description: Shamshir Persian Sabre 18th - 19th century. Size: L850mm.

Image Code H589

Catalogue No.: H589 Description: Chinese Steel Sword (Dao) Pair. 19th Century. Size: L700mm.

Image Code H592

Catalogue No.: H592 Description: Indian Sabre. Sikh Cavalry. Talwar. Size: L800mm.

Image Code H593

Catalogue No.: H593 Description: Shamshir. Persian Sabre. 18th-19th Century. Size: L850mm.

Image Code H608

Catalogue No.: H608 Description: Iron Axe Head. Mughal. India 17th century. Size: 140 X 140mm.

Image Code H611

Catalogue No.: H611 Description: Early African Iron Anklets / Manacles. Size: L325mm.

Image Code H612

Catalogue No.: H612 Description: Early African Iron Anklets / Manacles. Size: L350mm.

Image Code H613

Catalogue No.: H613 Description: Early African Brass and Iron Horse Stirrup / Fitment. Size: L430mm.

Image Code H614

Catalogue No.: H614 Description: Early African Iron Anklets / Manacles. Size: L280mm (each).

Image Code H615

Catalogue No.: H615 Description: Early African Iron Anklets / Manacles. Size: L420mm.

Image Code H616

Catalogue No.: H616 Description: Early African Brass and Iron Horse Stirrup / Fitment. Size: L410mm.

Image Code H617

Catalogue No.: H617 Description: Early African Brass and Iron Horse Stirrup / Fitment. Size: L415mm.

Image Code H618

Catalogue No.: H618 Description: Early African Iron Manacle with Chain. Size: L1360mm.

Image Code H626

Catalogue No.: H626 Description: Early African Iron Sword. Size: L985mm.

Image Code H627

Catalogue No.: H627 Description: Early African Cavalry Drill Sword with Leather Scabbard. Size: L1100mm.

Image Code H628

Catalogue No.: H628 Description: North African Sword with Leather Scabbard. Size: L1149mm.

Image Code H629

Catalogue No.: H629 Description: North African swords. Size: L749mm.

Image Code H636

Catalogue No.: H636 Description: Javanese Kris Knife. Size: L410mm.

Image Code H637

Catalogue No.: H637 Description: Javanese Kris Knife. Size: L480mm.

Image Code H638

Catalogue No.: H638 Description: Javanese Kris Knife. Size: L385mm.

Image Code H639

Catalogue No.: H639 Description: Javanese Kris Knife. Size: L443mm.

Image Code H640

Catalogue No.: H640 Description: Javanese Kris Knife. Size: L420mm.

Image Code H649

Catalogue No.: H649 Description: Northern African Single Edge Sword Pair. Size: L906mm.

Image Code H651

Catalogue No.: H651 Description: Southern African Iron Spear Tip. Size: L426mm.

Image Code H1460

Catalogue No.: H1460 Description: Arabian Short Sword. Pair. Size: 320x94, 243x72mm.

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