The monastery of Docheiariou (eleventh/twelfth century)
Obverse
St. Michael standing with open wings, holding long scepter and probably a globe (not a scroll, as stated by Laurent). On either side: ΜΧ: Μιχαήλ. Linear border.
Reverse
Inscription of five lines. Linear border.
ΔΟΧΕΙ
ΑΡΙΟΥ
ΚΡΑΤΥΝ
ΜΟΝΗΣ
ΛΟΓΣ
Δοχειαρίου κρατύνω μονῆς λόγους
Obverse
St. Michael standing with open wings, holding long scepter and probably a globe (not a scroll, as stated by Laurent). On either side: ΜΧ: Μιχαήλ. Linear border.
Reverse
Inscription of five lines. Linear border.
ΔΟΧΕΙ
ΑΡΙΟΥ
ΚΡΑΤΥΝ
ΜΟΝΗΣ
ΛΟΓΣ
Δοχειαρίου κρατύνω μονῆς λόγους
| Accession number | BZS.1958.106.416 |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 21.0 mm; field: 16.0 mm |
| Previous Editions | DO Seals 1, no. 28.3. |
Translation
Δοχειαρίου κρατύνω μονῆς λόγους.
I confirm the correspondence of the monastery of Docheiariou.
Commentary
The reverse inscription is a correct twelve-syllable verse.
The peninsula of Mount Athos was a territory reserved for monks from the ninth century on. The origins and early history of the monastic community, which from the beginning was dedicated to the Virgin, are discussed by Denise Papachryssanthou in Prôtaton. The central administration, located in the town of Karyes, was supervised by an elected protos, who together with his council, also administrated communal properties, while the monasteries maintained their independence.