PB Byzantine seal of Michael Bourtzes vestarches (11th (2nd half)-12th AD).
Obv: Bust of the Mother of God orans. Inscription on either side: Μ(ήτη)ρ Θ(εο)ῦ. Border of dots.
Rev: Inscription of seven lines: Σκέπε σῳζε φύλατ(τε), Κόρ(η) Παρθέν(ος) Μιχαὴλ λαμπρότ(α)τ(ο) βεστάρχ(ην) Βούρτζην. Border of dots.
Translation: Mother of God. Protect, save and guard, Virgin Maiden, most illustrious Michael Bourtzes vestarches.
Cheynet, Bourtzai -. The title of lamprotatos (λαμπρότατος, most illustrious) in the verses of this unique seal belonging to Michael from the famous Broutzes family is also rarely used on Byzantine metrical seals. Fort the title, see Kölner Münzkabinett 113, 504. For similar verses, cf. Bulgakova p. 302, PBW Michael 20357 (but Michael Beriotes, patrikios and protovestarches).
Described by Pactolus Numismatic Academy (PNA).
Condition: Very Fine.
Weight: 12.43 g.
Diameter: 27.6 mm.