For your consideration is an ancient Byzantine Fire Grenade, circa 11th-16th century AD, Provenance: Private collection Big Sky, Montana. Greek fire, also referred to as liquid fire, Roman fire and fire of war, was the most famous weapon of the Byzantine arsenal. An incendiary device successfully used in both attack and defensive situations, the powerful weapon played a crucial role in the defense of the Byzantine Empire, ensuring its long survival. The precise composition of Greek fire remains unknown to this day, though research suggests that petroleum was a vital ingredient making the liquid impervious to water. Byzantine grenades appeared around the reign of Leo III (717-741 AD) as an alternative method to utilize Greek fire in battle. These ceramic explosive jars became popular during the crusades (11th-13th century AD) and were used until the Mamluk era (13th-16th century AD). Their average size and the presence of a grip on some examples suggest that the vessels were thrown by hand, thus used in short-range conflicts. These features however, do not exclude the use of Byzantine grenades in long-distance battles. The vessels were most likely hurled at the enemy by catapults or trebuchets and either ignited before release or set alight by fire arrows after the impact. Made from heavy clay, Byzantine grenades varied in both shape and size. The vessels typically feature a bulbous or piriform (pear-shape) body with a short cylindrical neck and a small aperture to the top for filling which would have accommodated a fuse to instigate the explosion. This Byzantine grenade is amazingly good overall condition, exterior has raised scale-like bosses upper section. Concentric circles decorate the lower half which culminates in a protruding knob. No obvious marring observed. Measures 4"H x 3.5" diameter approximately. Weight approximate 1lb