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Michael IV the Paphlagonian (1034-41)

 
 

Obverse

Half-length representation of Christ wearing a tunic and himation and holding a book. He has a nimbus cruciger; each arm contains a decoration consisting of five pellets. Sigla visible at left and right: (ησοῦ)ς Χ(ριστό)ς. Circular inscription. Border of dots.

ΕΜΜΑΝΟΥΗΛ

Ἐμμανουήλ.

Reverse

Half-length representation of Michael IV wearing a crown with a cross and pendilia and a loros. He is shown holding a globus cruciger in the right hand and an akakia in the left. Circular inscription. Border of dots.

.ΙΧΑΗΛΑSIL.SR

[Μ]iχαηl basil[e]us R(o)m(aion).

Obverse

Half-length representation of Christ wearing a tunic and himation and holding a book. He has a nimbus cruciger; each arm contains a decoration consisting of five pellets. Sigla visible at left and right: (ησοῦ)ς Χ(ριστό)ς. Circular inscription. Border of dots.

ΕΜΜΑΝΟΥΗΛ

Ἐμμανουήλ.

Reverse

Half-length representation of Michael IV wearing a crown with a cross and pendilia and a loros. He is shown holding a globus cruciger in the right hand and an akakia in the left. Circular inscription. Border of dots.

.ΙΧΑΗΛΑSIL.SR

[Μ]iχαηl basil[e]us R(o)m(aion).

Accession number BZS.1958.106.525 (formerly DO 58.106.525)
Diameter 34.0 mm
Previous Editions

DO Seals 6, no. 72.1; Zacos-Veglery no. 78.

Translation

Μiχαηl basileus Romaion.

Michael, basileus of the Romans.

Commentary

Michael’s visage is very similar to its depiction on coins.

Bibliography

  • Catalogue of Byzantine Seals at Dumbarton Oaks and in the Fogg Museum of Art, Vol. 6, Emperors, Patriarchs of Constantinople, Addenda (Open in Zotero)
  • Byzantine Lead Seals, Vol. 1 (Open in Zotero)