Hook

Date43-409

MediumIron

ClassificationsMiscellaneous Equipment

Terms

Object numberC00712

DescriptionVery large four pronged hook with a ring at the top. Found at Moorfields in 1865. London.

Roman grappling hooks such as this were commonly used in naval warfare, beginning with the Sicilian Revolts. They were fired from ballistas at enemy ships, with the intent of getting caught in the rigging. They were then winched in to bring the ship closer to enable boarding. This particular design is one of a few variations which existed in the Roman world.

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