Philaretos Brachamios, taxiarches, mid 11th century

ANRO-1707

Ranks & Titles: taxiarches
Specifications: Diameter 27mm

Obv. Description: Inscription of four lines, followed by decoration. Border of dots.
Obv. Inscription: Κ(ύρι)ε βοήθ(ει) τῷ σῷ δ(ούλῳ) Φιλαρέτ(ῳ)
Inscr. Translation: Lord, help your servant Philaretos

Rev. Description: Inscription of four lines, preceded and followed by decoration. Border of dots.
Rev. Inscription: Κύριε βοήθει τῷ σῷ δούλῳ Φιλαρέτῳ [. . .] κε ταξηάρχῃ τῷ Βραχαμίῳ
Inscr. Translation: and taxiarches Brachamios

Cheynet, “Les Brachamioi,” under no. 13 (dates to 1050–60)

Dumbarton Oaks, Accession Number: BZS.1958.106.5670

Philaretos Brachamios was a notable Byzantine military figure of Armenian descent who played a significant role during the mid-11th century. His early career is marked by his service as taxiarches, a rank indicating his command over an infantry regiment. This position highlights his early involvement in the Byzantine military hierarchy and sets the stage for his later prominence.

Philaretos rose to greater prominence following the Battle of Manzikert in 1071, eventually controlling significant territories in Cilicia, Armenia, and Syria as a semi-autonomous ruler. This seal reflects the beginning stages of his military career, prior to his elevation to higher ranks such as kouropalates and domestikos.

The seal's inscription reveals the invocation of divine assistance, a common feature in Byzantine seals, emphasizing Philaretos's reliance on spiritual protection and favor. The obverse and reverse inscriptions are framed with decorative elements, typical of Byzantine seal design.

The reference to "κε" on the reverse suggests that the engraver may have omitted a preceding title, potentially indicating Philaretos's progression within the military ranks.