This is the seal of the second Latin Emperor of Constantinople, Henry of Flanders, who ruled from 1206 to 1216. This circular lead seal has two sides, with different images and inscriptions on each side. On the obverse side of the seal, there is a central image of the emperor with a complimentary circular inscription. The inscription, found between a double border of dots, reads in Greek, “ερρικοσδεσποτης.” This translates into English as, “Henry, despotes,” meaning someone of great power, like an emperor.



In the center, you can see the emperor, sitting straight up on a throne, which is decorated with animal heads, probably lions. The emperor wears imperial garments and a crown. Of the two images on the seals, this one is connected to religious aspects of Emperor Henry’s power. In his right hand, he holds a scepter with a cross on top of it, and in his left, he holds a globus cruciger, also known as ‘the orb and cross,’ which is another symbol of religious influence. This image presents the emperor in a straight-up position with his head up, with the focus being on his honorably seated figure. This type of image puts an emphasis on an honorable and a controlled rule as he is seated in a grounded and strong position in a formal manner and attire on his throne.


There is a similar format on the reverse side of the seal. On this side, there is another circular inscription between a double border of dots, this time reading in Latin, “Henricus Dei gratia inperator Romanie.” This translates into English as, “Henry, by the Grace of God, emperor of the Roman realm.” Again, it asserts the emperor’s authority in a religious context.