Fulus of Sulayman Shah, with Horseman right and Kufic legend c. 12th century

Editor: Here we have a copper Fulus of Sulayman Shah, depicting a horseman and Kufic script. It looks quite worn. What can you tell me about the coin and its story? Curator: This coin, though small, speaks volumes about power and representation. The horseman isn't just a figure; it's a symbol of authority and control, deeply embedded in the social fabric of the time. How do you think its presence impacted the common person who handled it? Editor: I guess it would remind them who was in charge. Curator: Exactly. And what does it tell us about Rukn ad-Din Sulayman Shah's understanding of visual language and its impact on solidifying his rule? The Kufic script, too, is not merely decorative, but a conscious assertion of cultural and religious identity. Editor: That's fascinating. It makes me see the coin as more than just money; it's propaganda. Curator: Precisely! It's a tangible link to a complex historical moment. Reflecting on this coin illuminates broader questions about identity, power, and the narratives embedded within everyday objects. Editor: Thank you. I learned so much.