Coin of Justinian I c. 527 - 538

Editor: This is a coin of Justinian I, and its worn condition gives it a palpable sense of history. The imagery, though faded, has an intriguing composition. What do you see in this piece, focusing on its visual elements? Curator: The coin’s circular form immediately establishes its function. The relief imagery, despite its degradation, reveals a deliberate arrangement of forms. Consider the interplay between the portrait and the symbolic "M," possibly denoting value or mint. Note the relationship between figure and ground, and how that impacts our reading. Editor: I see. So it's the shapes and their relationship that give it meaning, regardless of its historical context? Curator: Precisely. The formal elements are the primary carriers of meaning. The coin's aesthetic presence transcends its historical function. Editor: That's a fascinating way to look at it. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure. It encourages a deeper appreciation of the object itself.