New 6th-7th Century Byzantine Seal Cruciform Monogram - Athanasios

[pogh_poor]

I acquired a nice 6th-7th Byzantine seal which measures 18.85 mm x 20.03 mm and weighs 9.71 g.  On the obverse is a bust of the Theotokos facing, holding the infant Christ; crosses flanking.  On the reverse, there is a cruciform monogram with Alpha   on the bottom; Theta   on the left; omnicron   on top and a ligature of Nu and Sigma on the right     (C).   I am trying to learn how to use Robert Freind's lexicon in Byzantinische Monogramme und Eigennamen to identify it with some difficulty.. Have I detected all the Greek letters present and is my dating correct?   Pogh_poor

[Gert]

Yes, that's mostly correct. But you forgot the V on top of the O. Usually this ligature OV is on top, and many times it is the genitive ending of the name (ie Theodorou, Sergiou etc.). Also, the I, if present in the name, is usually implied, so you should always add it as a possibility. Sometimes, a lambda is implied with the alpha. Have fun trying to find it, but keep in mind that Feind does not offer a complete list!
Regards
Gert

[pogh_poor]

Could it be Αθανασίου / Athanasios?  7th Century? Pogh_poor

[Gert]

Yes, spot on. Athanasios (in the form of the genitive AQANACIOV) is a solid solution of this monogram. 7th century is also pretty certain for this type of monogram seal. 2nd half 6th is also possible. At the end of the 7th century, into the 8th, a dative becomes the norm for the inscription (so AQANACIW)
Regards
Gert

[pogh_poor]

Thank you for your help Gert.  It is easier when the monogram is clear like this one! 
Pogh-poor

[Gert]

Yes, it is. In fact, when the monogram is unclear or incomplete, often it is not only difficult, but impossible to read it.
Regards
Gert

[pogh_poor]

I think that I have found the exact seal in the Dumbarton Oaks Collection - BZS.1958.106.1800.

OBVERSE
Bust of the Virgin with medallion between two short crosses. Thin wreath border.

REVERSE
Cruciform monogram. Wreath border.

α - θ - ι - ν - ο - σ - υ

Ἀθανασίου

Ἀθανασίου.

(Seal of) Athanasios

 What do you think?  Pogh_poor

[Gert]

Yes, that seems to be it. It is hard, however, to be 100% sure when it is not the exact same boulloterion. If you look at the DO site, you'll find more seals with an Athanasios-monogram in a distinctly different style.
Regards
Gert