Theodora, 1055-1056. Seal or Bulla (Lead, 36 mm, 30.00 g, 12 h), Constantinople. + ЄMMA-NOYHΛ / IC - XC Draped bust of Christ Pantokrator facing, wearing nimbus decorated with five pellets in each arm, holding Book of Gospels with his left hand and raising his right hand in benediction. Rev. + ΘЄOΔΩP' ΑΥΓOΥ-CTΛ H ПOPΦΥ[ΡΗ] Bust of Theodora Porphyrogenite facing, wearing ornate jewelled crown with pendilia and jewelled loros, holding staff surmounted by cross set on tendrils in her right hand, and raising her left hand in supplication. Zacos I 82a. Gemini IV, 2008, 541 = Triton XXIV 2021, 238 (but the present piece is from a different boulloterion, and is more finely made and of better style). A splendid and impressive piece, clear and very well-struck. With attractive grey surfaces. Some deposits, otherwise, extremely fine.
Price realized | 6'000 CHF |
Starting price | 4'000 CHF |
Estimate | 5'000 CHF |