Anonymous Follis c. 1050 - 1060

Curator: This is an Anonymous Follis, an intriguing artifact currently housed at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: The first thing that strikes me is its weathered texture—it speaks of countless transactions, of journeys through time and trade. Curator: Exactly, and the imagery is key. The obverse depicts Christ, and the reverse features a Greek inscription, revealing Byzantine influences. Editor: The halo around Christ... it's not merely religious; it's a symbol of power, of imperial legitimacy inextricably linked to divine right. How did this iconography impact the coin's value? Curator: It's a constant negotiation. The coin represents both worldly authority and spiritual endorsement. This raises complex questions about how societies negotiate power. Editor: It definitely makes you consider the power dynamics embedded even in something as small as a coin. Curator: Absolutely, and exploring these layers helps us understand the coin's place within historical and cultural narratives.