Dinar of Hisham 737 - 738

Editor: So, this is a gold Dinar of Hisham from the Harvard Art Museums. It's such a small object, but it feels very powerful. What do you see in its design? Curator: The script immediately draws the eye. Notice the placement of text within concentric circles. The texture created by the inscription gives the coin a tactile quality, suggesting its function extends beyond mere currency. Editor: That’s interesting. What do you mean? Curator: Consider how the circular form, adorned with precisely incised lettering, creates a balanced composition. The reflective surface of the gold would have caught the light, further emphasizing its value and reinforcing the authority it represents. It's a deliberate interplay of form and function, wouldn’t you agree? Editor: I do. It’s amazing how much visual information is packed into such a small space. Curator: Indeed. A testament to the power of design.