Abstract: For the purpose of marking an article, e.g. the fibrous surface coat of a tennis ball, by branding, there is provided a casing (1) resembling the casing of a portable lighter, said casing having disposed at one open end face (2) a symbol (5) projecting beyond two opposed casing edges (9) by an amount corresponding to the desired branding depth. Spaced from said end face (2) there is provided in said casing (1) a transverse wall (10) provided with at least one nozzle aperture (8) which is directed towards the symbol (5). Provided within said casing (1) are a liquid-gas tank (6) and an igniting mechanism (13) adapted to be actuated from the exterior of the device.