Sestertius of Philip I c. 3th century

Curator: Here we have a sestertius of Philip I, also known as Philip the Arab, held at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: The relief is so subtle, it’s as if the form almost fades into the copper material. It conveys a sense of age and wear. Curator: Indeed. The coin is a powerful symbol of Roman imperial authority and the cult of the emperor. The profile represents Philip, and the reverse probably shows a deity. Editor: The way the portrait's profile is presented, with such stoicism, speaks volumes about the intended message. It echoes similar profiles on Greek and Roman coins. Curator: It's a cultural shorthand instantly recognizable, linking Philip to a lineage of power, while the deity on the reverse connects the emperor to divine support. Editor: I am struck by how such a small object can encapsulate such grand narratives. Curator: Precisely, it offers an insight into power, belief, and visual language. Editor: Thank you. It's an interesting piece to ponder.