John deacon (?) (sixth century)
Obverse
Bust of the Virgin, facing, nimbate. Before her is Christ, with nimbus cr. Linear border.
Reverse
Block monogram. Linear border.
- δ - ι - κ - ν - ο - υ - ω
Ἰωάννου διακόνου
Accession number | BZS.1955.1.74 |
---|---|
Diameter | 19.0 mm |
Translation
Ἰωάννου διακόνου.
(Seal of) John deacon.
Commentary
The large gap in the middle of the seal makes it difficult to unequivocally resolve the monogram, in addition to the monogram's apparent complexity. It is almost certain that Ἰωάννου is present, as is another word, perhaps διακόνου, or, as is less likely, another name, such as Δάννου (Daanos). If there are two names present, one is likely a patronymic, especially because there is no S to represent καὶ, but there is only the remains of a κ on the right. It is impossible to determine which name would be the patronymic.