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: Ἰ(ησοῦ)ς Χ(ριστό)ς. Circular inscription. Border of dots.
ΕΜΜΑΝΟΥΗΛ
Ἐμμανουήλ.
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: Ἰ(ησοῦ)ς Χ(ριστό)ς. Circular inscription. Border of dots.
ΕΜΜΑΝΟΥΗΛ
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) |
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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.
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)
Commentary
Michael’s visage is very similar to its depiction on coins.