Basileios Pharasmanes, magistros, 2nd half 11th century. Seal (Lead, 22 mm, 9.00 g, 12 h). MHP - ΘV Nimbate Mother of God “Episkepsis”, raising both hands in prayer, medallion of Christ in front . Rev. +KЄ R,Θ, / [RACI]ΛЄION / [MA]ΓICTPON / T[ON] ΦAPAC/MANHN in five lines. Unpublished in the standard references. Areas of weakness, otherwise, very fine.



The name Pharasmanes evokes the ancient history of Iberia (modern-day Georgia), where several kings bore this name. In Byzantine times, Pharasmanes was notably used by a member of the Apokapes family, of Armenian descent. This Pharasmanes Apokapes was likely the son of Michael Apokapes and the younger brother of the distinguished general Basileios Apokapes. Additionally, Pharasmanes is attested as a family name on seals; an unpublished seal of a Symeon Pharasmanes is held in the collection of Dumbarton Oaks. Our seal references another family member named Basil. It is possible that Pharasmanes Apokapes was the founder of this family.