Byzantine lead seal of Paul imperial chartoularios
with the depiction of prophet Daniel in lion's den
(6th cent.)

Obverse: Prophet Daniel standing facial and orans (praying) in the lions' den, nimbate and wearing chiton, a cross and beneath a lion in either side, all within wreath border.

Reverse: Block monogram with a cross on left field, possibly resolved as +ΠΑΥΛΟΥ ΒΑCΙΛΙΚΟΥ ΧΑΡΤΟΥΛΑΡΙΟΥ (Of Paul, imperial chartoularios), all within wreath border.

It is noteworthy that the depiction of prophet Daniel in the lions' den (cf. Book of Daniel, 6:1-28), was a popular theme in paleochristianic era, and it was used in the seals of persons with imperial dignities connected with justice (e.g. judges).

Condition: Very Fine

Weight: 13.6 gr
Diameter: 25 mm