Tornikios, protospatharios and strategos (of Cappadocia?)

Tornikios, protospatharios and strategos (of Cappadocia?), 11th century. Seal (Lead, 25 mm, 13.57 g, 12 h). MHP - ΘV The Mother of God “Hodegetria”, nimbate, wearing chiton and maphorion, pointing with her right hand towards Infant Christ seated on her left arm. Rev. +TOPNI/K, ACΠAΘ S / CTPATIΓ ... in five (?) lines. Cf. DO Seals IV, 43.12. Corrosion on the reverse, otherwise, very fine.


The seal Dumbarton Oaks with a very similar Mother of God of the Hodegetria type as appears on our seal may belong to the same owner. It mentions the military command of Tornikios in Cappadocia. The legend closes with a family name that is unclear, although 'Aporos' is suggested by the editors. In any case, the personal name Tornikios suggests a descent from Ibero-Armenian aristocracy.

Leu Web 15 Lot 2744
26.02.2021