Denarius of Julia Domna 211 - 217

Curator: The Denarius of Julia Domna, a Roman coin currently residing at the Harvard Art Museums, presents a fascinating study in miniature relief. Editor: It looks incredibly worn, almost ghostly. I wonder about the hands it passed through. Curator: Indeed, the wear speaks to its age and function. Notice the careful articulation of Julia Domna's profile, and the figure on the reverse. Its composition offers visual insight into Roman imperial representation. Editor: Absolutely. It’s also interesting to consider the power dynamics at play. Here’s Domna, a woman in a patriarchal society, immortalized on currency. It’s a statement about her influence, visually circulated throughout the empire. Curator: Precisely. The coin's materiality—the silver itself—speaks to value, both intrinsic and symbolic. Editor: The coin’s survival and rediscovery opens up interesting questions about gender and power in the Roman Empire. Curator: I appreciate the way it embodies both function and artistry. Editor: It's a tangible piece of history that reflects so much.