Stavraton of John V c. 1341 - 1391

Editor: This is a Stavraton of John V, a small silver coin weighing just over 8 grams. It's fascinating to think about what this little object represents. What can this coin tell us about the Byzantine world and its power structures? Curator: This coin, seemingly insignificant, speaks volumes about the intersection of power, religion, and identity in Byzantium. It's not merely currency; it's a carefully crafted message. What do you notice about the imagery? How does it reflect the social and political anxieties of the time? Editor: I see what seems like a portrait on one side, and some sort of symbol on the other. Does the choice of imagery connect to ideas of gender, race, or class? Curator: Absolutely. Consider who is depicted, how they are depicted, and what that representation aims to convey about their authority and legitimacy. Currency was often a tool for reinforcing existing social hierarchies and propagating specific ideologies. What happens if we consider the context of wars and religious conflicts during John V's reign? Editor: That makes me see it in a completely new light. It's amazing how such a small object can be such a potent symbol of an entire era. Curator: Indeed. It's a powerful reminder that even the smallest artifacts can hold profound insights into history and power.