Romanos Skleros, proedros and stratepedarches of the East, 1057-1065. Seal (Lead, 32 mm, 40.52 g, 11 h). M-X St. Michael, nimbate, standing facing on dais, holding cruciform scepter in his right hand and globus cruciger in his left. Rev. +ΡⲰΜΑΝ, / ΠΡΟЄΔΡΟ, / CΤΡΑΤΟΠЄ/ΔΑΡΧ, ΤΙC ΑΝΑ/ΤΟΛΗC S Δ૪Ξ / ΑΝΤΙΟΧΙΑ, / Ο CΚΗΛ,P, in seven lines. Seibt, Skleroi p. 82, note 299. Seyrig 159. An exceptional and impressive seal of an important Byzantine general. Scrape on obverse, otherwise, nearly extremely fine.



Romanos Skleros came from the distinguished Skleros family, known for Bardas Skleros who led an unsuccessful revolt against Basil II (958-1025). Romanos was the brother of Maria Skleraina, who was the mistress of Constantine IX Monomachus (1000-1055). He was a skilled military commander and held the significant position of doux of Antioch for an extended period. Some of his seals, including the one in our possession, also bear the prestigious military title of stratopedarches of the East.

In 1057, Romanos aligned himself with Isaac Comnenus during Isaac's revolt against Michael VI. A seal in the Zacos collection mentions Romanos’ highest court title of kouropalates, suggesting he may have been elevated to this position by the new emperor as a reward for his loyalty and support.