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yzantine Lead Seal Christ Pantokrator & Archangel Michael Holy Land Find 19mm Authentic
Authentic ancient artifact, guaranteed genuine and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. Registered Holy Land find.
Culture: Byzantine EmpireDate: Circa 10th–12th Century ADMaterial: Lead (Plumbum)Type: Bulla / Sigillography (Administrative Seal)Diameter: 19 mm
Description:This is a rare and religiously significant Byzantine lead seal (bulla) featuring a dual-iconographic program. Such seals were used by high-ranking officials and ecclesiastical figures within the Byzantine administration, particularly in the thematic territories of the Levant and the Holy Land.
The obverse displays a bust of Christ Pantokrator, nimbed and holding the Gospels. The reverse features a distinct figure with large, sweeping wings, identified as the Archangel Michael. Michael was revered as the "Strategos" (General) of the Heavenly Host and the primary protector of the Byzantine Empire. This specific combination—the Almighty and his Warrior Archangel—suggests the seal may have belonged to a military commander or a religious leader seeking divine protection over state affairs in the Holy Land.
The piece is characterized by its compact 19mm module and a dense, mineralized patina typical of archaeological finds from the arid Levantine region.
Comparable Examples:
Dumbarton Oaks Collection: Accession Number BZS.1958.106.31 (Anonymous seal featuring Christ/Archangel Michael type)
The British Museum: Registration Number 1891,0409.21 (Byzantine lead bulla with Archangel and religious icon)
Nesbitt, J. & Oikonomides, N., Catalogue of Byzantine Seals at Dumbarton Oaks, Vol. 7 (Anonymous Seals), Paragraph 1.15.
Zacos, G. & Veglery, A., Byzantine Lead Seals, Vol. 1, Part III, Paragraph 2984 (Plate 210).
Laurent, V., Le Corpus des sceaux de l'empire byzantin, Vol. V, Part 2, Paragraph 1211.
Condition:Very Fine archaeological condition. Both the bust of Christ and the wings of the Archangel are identifiable. The patina is stable and aesthetically pleasing. No modern cleaning or restoration.
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