Double Dinar of Abu-Bakr II, Bijayah c. 11th century

Curator: The Harvard Art Museums holds this example of a Double Dinar of Abu-Bakr II, crafted in Bijayah. Editor: It's striking—the square inscription fields set within the circular form create a compelling tension, almost a dialogue, between order and flow. Curator: Indeed, the square format is unusual for coinage, possibly referencing architectural forms influential during Abu-Bakr’s reign, underscoring his power and the established state structure. Editor: And the Kufic script, so meticulously rendered. It's not just about conveying meaning, but about the sheer visual impact of the interwoven forms. Each curve and line feels deliberate. Curator: Absolutely. The aesthetic choices on these coins were carefully considered for the image they projected, the politics of imagery as you say. Editor: It is a fascinating artifact. It really makes you consider the weight and value that was held, both literally and symbolically.