Sestertius of Julia Maesa 218 - 223

Editor: Here we have a Sestertius, created by Julia Maesa. What I find striking is the contrast between the detailed portrait on one side and the more symbolic figure on the other. What do you make of this composition? Curator: The composition reveals a strict adherence to the conventions of Roman portraiture, yet one should observe how the figure's presence is defined not only by form, but the incised lines defining the garments and hair. Editor: So, it's a study in contrasts, formal yet symbolic. I learned a lot. Thanks! Curator: Indeed, a deeper examination reveals the coin's structure is defined by tension between the personal and the archetypal.