Anonymous (eleventh century, second half)
Obverse
The Archangel Michael standing, wearing a short military tunic, holding a scepter in his right hand and a sword in his left. Sigla: .|̣Χ|Μ : Ἀ(ρ)[χ(άγγελος)] Μ(ι)χ(αὴλ. Border of dots.
Reverse
St Nicholas, standing, blessing with his right hand and holding a gospel book in his left; worn. Inscription in two columns: Ο||.Ι|ΟΣΙ|Ο̣|ΛΑ|.. : ὁ ἅ[γ]ιος Νικόλα[ος]. Border of dots.
Obverse
The Archangel Michael standing, wearing a short military tunic, holding a scepter in his right hand and a sword in his left. Sigla: .|̣Χ|Μ : Ἀ(ρ)[χ(άγγελος)] Μ(ι)χ(αὴλ. Border of dots.
Reverse
St Nicholas, standing, blessing with his right hand and holding a gospel book in his left; worn. Inscription in two columns: Ο||.Ι|ΟΣΙ|Ο̣|ΛΑ|.. : ὁ ἅ[γ]ιος Νικόλα[ος]. Border of dots.
| Accession number | BZS.1958.106.1577 |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 28.0 mm; field: 18.0 mm |
| Previous Editions | DO Seals 7, 12.11. |
Commentary
It is unusual to see the Archangel Michael with both a sword and scepter. Customarily he is shown with either a scepter and globus cruciger or a sword and its scabbard. The combination of the two roles of imperial and military attributes is rare, except when in a few examples he is depicted in a short military tunic and holding a scepter and a globe.