★ A correspondent of Michael Psellos ★

Basileios, vestes, grand chartoularios and judge of the Velon and Armeniakon, 3rd quarter 11th century. Seal (Lead, 27 mm, 17.91 g, 12 h). +ΘKЄ - ROHΘH - MHP - ΘV Half-length figure of the Mother of God “Hagiosoritissa” to the left, nimbate, both hands raised in supplication; in upper left field, hand of God reaching down. Rev. RACIΛЄI/Ⲱ RECTH MΓ /Λ XT૪Λ’ KPIT / TOV RHΛ૪ S / TⲰN APMЄ/NIAKⲰN in six lines, cross between decorations above. BBÖ II 175. Very fine.

From a European collection, formed before 2005.

Interestingly, a person named Basileios, who was provincial judge of the theme of Armeniakon, appears as a correspondent of Michael Psellos, the well-known Byzantine intellectual and man of letters. We learn that Basileios has trouble administrating justice in the border province. Psellos tries to lift his spirits by comparing the Armeniakon theme to a diseased body that is anxiously waiting for a doctor. He also says that it is only the periphery of the theme that is affected, the heartland remaining healthy. The passage may be a reference to Turkic invasions on the eastern border during the reign of Constantine X Ducas (1059-1067).