Coin of Ptolemy VI and Ptolemy VIII c. 180

Editor: This is a coin of Ptolemy VI and Ptolemy VIII, issued by Ptolemy VIII Eurgetes II. The imagery seems potent, yet I can't quite put my finger on why. How do you interpret this work? Curator: Look closely at the double eagle. What feelings does it evoke? The Ptolemaic kings used it as a symbol of power, consciously referencing both Greek and Egyptian traditions. What memories, what fears, what hopes might this symbol have carried for people then? Editor: That's fascinating. It really makes you think about the weight of imagery. Thank you. Curator: Indeed. Considering the cultural memory embedded in such symbols opens up a new understanding of their power.