Tetarteron of Alexios III c. 1197 - 1203

Editor: Here we have a bronze Tetarteron of Alexios III. It’s easy to overlook something this small, but it must have been pretty important. What can you tell me about its social function? Curator: Consider the power dynamics embedded in something like this. A ruler’s image stamped on currency broadcasts authority and legitimacy. How might this coin have been used to solidify Alexios III’s reign? Editor: It's interesting to think of art as a tool for social control. Were there other ways imagery was used during that time to maintain power? Curator: Absolutely. Think of monumental architecture or religious icons. They all contributed to a carefully constructed visual landscape designed to reinforce existing power structures. Editor: That gives me a lot to think about. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure.