★ Lead seal of Isaias vestarches, krites and megas doux of Asia ★

Lead seal of Isaias vestarches, krites and megas doux of Asia (11th cent.). A very interesting historically seal!
Condition: Obv. somewhat trimmed with small scuffs, a large scuff on rev., otherwise about Very Fine.

Obverse: The bust of the Mother of God, facial, nimbate, orans, with infant Jesus Christ on her chest, also nimbate, facial and blessing, all within dotted border. The usual inscription Μ(ΗΤΗ)Ρ- [Θ(ΕΟ)[Υ] = Μήτηρ Θεοῦ (Mother of God).

Reverse: Inscription in 7 lines, following a decorative pattern and a cross, all within a dotted border: + Θ(ΕΟΤΟ)ΚΕ Β(ΟΗ)Θ(ΕΙ)/[CΩ Δ(ΟΥΛΩ)] ΗCΑΪΑ/[ΒΕ]CΤΑΡΧ(Η)/ΚΡΗΤ(Η) ΚΑ(Ι) Μ(Ε)Γ(ΑΛΩ)/ΔΟΥΚΙ ΑC(ΙΑC) Ω/ΤΡΕ...Ι/Κ.. = + Θεοτόκε, βοήθει σῷ δούλῳ Ἠσαΐᾳ βεστάρχῃ, κριτῇ καὶ μεγάλῳ δουκὶ Ἀσίας,...

Most probably the term Asia here concerns the westernmost part of Asia Minor.

Weight: 16.43 gr - Diameter: 27 mm