Denarius of Caracalla 

Curator: This is a denarius of Caracalla, currently held at the Harvard Art Museums. It’s quite small, less than 3 grams. What are your first thoughts? Editor: It feels incredibly weighty despite its size. I am immediately drawn to the stark profile of Caracalla; it has a somewhat haunting presence. Curator: The coin offers insight into Caracalla's reign, particularly the political image he cultivated. Coins were, in essence, mass media, projecting power and ideology throughout the Roman Empire. Editor: Absolutely. The image also conveys a carefully constructed persona of authority. It speaks volumes about the emperor’s self-perception and how he wanted to be seen. It touches on themes of power, image, and masculinity. Curator: It’s a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of art and politics in ancient Rome. Editor: Indeed, a tangible piece of history that sparks many questions about Roman society.