Follis of Maxentius, Rome 307 - 308

Editor: Here we have the Follis of Maxentius, a Roman coin held at the Harvard Art Museums. It's quite small, and the bronze is heavily patinated. What symbols or meanings resonate with you when you look at this? Curator: The portrait of Maxentius himself, facing right, embodies imperial power. But look at the reverse. What do you see depicted there? Editor: It looks like a temple or a gate of some kind? Curator: Precisely! It's likely meant to evoke the Temple of Venus or Roma, symbols of Roman power and legitimacy. This coin visually attempts to connect Maxentius with those established ideals. Editor: It’s a fascinating way to see how even everyday objects can become powerful tools of propaganda. Curator: Indeed, and by understanding the visual language, we can decipher the messages they intended to convey.