The large letters are characteristic of the second half of the 12th century, leaving us in no doubt that this is a seal of Melias the younger son of Leo Roupen (see lot 131). The high Byzantine dignity of sebastos, which accorded the recipient access to the imperial 'family', was bestowed by Manuel Comnenus. Melias however had other plans. After the death of his brother Thoros II, he consolidated the independence of Cilician Armenia, and did not hesitate in seeking an alliance with Nur ed Din, ruler of Syria. Melias was assassinated in 1175.