Seal of the imperial kommerkia of Mesembria (747/8) c. 747 - 748

Editor: Here we have the "Seal of the imperial kommerkia of Mesembria," attributed to Leo III, dating back to 747/8. It’s a small, unassuming object, but the imagery of the two figures is striking. What can you tell me about its meaning? Curator: This seal isn't just an administrative marker; it's a window into the Byzantine power structures and societal values. The figures represent authority, but consider who is *not* represented here. Whose voices are silenced by this display of imperial power? Editor: That's interesting. So, its value lies in the power dynamics of the time? Curator: Precisely. The seal speaks volumes about gender, class, and the control of trade within the empire, and the suppression of marginalized communities. Editor: I see. It’s more than just an old seal; it’s a complex historical artifact. Curator: Indeed. Objects like this challenge us to think critically about the narratives they uphold and the inequalities they reflect.