Sestertius of Julia Mamaea 231

Curator: Here we have a sestertius of Julia Mamaea, part of the Harvard Art Museums collection, weighing nearly 20 grams. Editor: It’s quite evocative. The patinated bronze surface tells a story of time and use. Curator: Indeed. This material circulated as currency; thus, its value lies in its material and the labor that went into its making. We see the imprint of imperial power literally worn into the metal. Editor: And the image! Julia Mamaea, a powerful figure, immortalized through her portrait. That image, replicated countless times, shaped perceptions and cemented her legacy. Curator: The act of minting, controlling the metal supply... a deliberate act of economic and political control. Editor: But the image itself is so lasting. It's a symbol of power that transcends time. Curator: Ultimately, a study of production reveals its role in shaping social order. Editor: A powerful reminder of how symbols endure, shaping our understanding of the past.