Nonnos, late 5th-6th century. Seal (Lead, 17 mm, 2.91 g, 12 h). Captive kneeling to left, hands bound behind his back; to left, uncertain object. Rev. NONN૪ Draped half-lengthed bust facing. Unpublished in the standard references. Very fine.



This early Byzantine seal showcases remarkably uncommon iconography. The depiction of a bound captive appears to be unique among seals. The bust on the reverse lacks imperial regalia such as a crown, diadem, or pendilia, suggesting it may represent Nonnos himself, the dignitary whose name is inscribed below. Several seals from the late Roman and early Byzantine periods feature non-imperial portraits, aligning with this example.