The Anastasis - The Resurrection

CNG 87, Lot: 1313. Estimate $5000. Sold for $9500. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

Alexius Comnenus. 12th century. PB Seal (39mm, 44.85 g, 12h). H AΓI/A AN APA/CIC, The Anastasis (Resurrection): the Resurrected Christ standing facing, but advancing slightly right, above the broken Gates of Hell filled with the symbols of bondage (keys, lock plates, chain links), drawing Adam up out of his sarcophagus and holding patriarchal cross; to left of Adam, Eve standing right; to right of Christ, imperial couple standing facing side-by-side in adoration / A/ΛЄ/ΞI/[OC]/O/K/O/M/NH/N/O/C down left field, O AΓI/OC ΓЄ/ωPΓ/IOC in center, Alexios, in contemporary Byzantine military outfit and holding sword in right hand over shoulder, standing facing with left forearm being held by St. Georgios, himself in military outfit with sword in scabbard, standing to his left with left hand raised. Zacos I 93. EF. Extremely rare.

For possible model for Anastasis scene depicted on this seal, see http://dlibrary.acu.edu.au/research/theology/ejournal/aejt_7/images/JL-137.jpg