Theodoros, spatharokandidatos and (man) of the asekretis, 11th century. Seal (Lead, 30 mm, 13.37 g, 12 h). Θ / ΘЄ/O-Δ/ⲰP/O, Nimbate facing bust of Saint Theodore, holding a spear over his right shoulder, and resting a shield on his left arm. Rev. +KЄ R,Θ, / ΘЄOΔⲰP, / CΠAΘ’KAN/ΔΔ, TⲰ T૪ A/CHKPHT, in five lines. Unpublished in the standard references. Rough spot on obverse, otherwise, very fine.


Theodoros identifies himself as '[man] of the asekretis'. This phrase (ho tou, ὁ τοῦ) appears on seals to denote a special relationship of trust between a servant and his superior, who is usually identified with his family name. On our seal, however, the person Theodoros serves is identified with his office of asekretis.