Byzantine lead seal, which was used to authenticate documents and ensure their confidentiality. These seals are valuable historical sources that provide insight into the administrative, religious, and social structures of the Byzantine Empire. The seal's design often featured images of Christ, the Virgin Mary, or various saints, as well as inscriptions or monograms. Lead was the most common material used for these seals, although gold, silver, and wax were also used. The seals were created using