9th-11th century AD. A hollow ceramic vessel with bulbous body and conical base, intended to be filled with explosive liquid and wick, used as a hand grenade; the base of the neck decorated with incised dots. Cf. Arendt, W. Irene Granaten des 13-14. Jahrhunderts, die an der Wolga gefunden sind, Zeitschrift fur Historische Waffen-und Kostumkunde, 11 (1926-8), p.42; Arendt, W. Die Spharisch-konischen Gefasse aus Gebranntem Ton, ibid.; Ayalon, D. Gunpowder and Firearms in the Mamluk Kingdom, London, 1956, p.16. 508 grams, 10cm (4"). Property of a North London gentleman; acquired on the UK art market before 2000. Fair condition, chipped.