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George/Sergios teichotes (seventh century)

 
 

Obverse

Inscription in four lines with a cross at the beginning of first line and at the end of the last line. Wreath border.

ΘΕ
ΟΤΟΚ
ΕΒΟΗ
ΘΗ

Θεοτόκε βοήθη

Reverse

Cruciform monogram. Wreath border.

γ - ε - ι - ο - ρ - σ - τ - υ - χ - ω

Γεωργίου/Σεργίου τειχώτου

Obverse

Inscription in four lines with a cross at the beginning of first line and at the end of the last line. Wreath border.

ΘΕ
ΟΤΟΚ
ΕΒΟΗ
ΘΗ

Θεοτόκε βοήθη

Reverse

Cruciform monogram. Wreath border.

γ - ε - ι - ο - ρ - σ - τ - υ - χ - ω

Γεωργίου/Σεργίου τειχώτου

Accession number BZS.1951.31.5.2851
Diameter 24.0 mm
Credit Line Harvard Art Museums/Arthur M. Sackler Museum, Bequest of Thomas Whittemore.

Translation

Θεοτόκε βοήθη Γεωργίου/Σεργίου τειχώτου.

Theotokos, help George/Sergios teichotes.

Commentary

The reverse monogram is not certain, as the apparent Γ on the left arm of the cruciform is cut-off; however George/Sergios teichotes is the only possible resolution. Teichotes, though obscure, is quite possible as a military title, even as early as this seal. If there were an Α present, then the seal would read Γεωργίου χαρτουλαρίου (George chartoularios).