Stavraton of John VIII c. 1425 - 1448

Curator: The Stavraton of John VIII, housed here at the Harvard Art Museums, presents a fascinating example of Byzantine currency. Its weight is approximately 6.03 grams. Editor: It's striking how weathered it looks, almost ghostlike, yet the impressions are still distinct. There's a real sense of history embedded in its form. Curator: Indeed. As currency, its material composition and production speak volumes about the economic and social conditions of the time. It was a tool of trade, yes, but also a symbol of imperial power, impacting daily life in the Byzantine empire. Editor: Looking at the image, I'm drawn to the composition. Despite its small scale, the figures possess a monumental quality, framed tightly within the circular space. The details, even in their worn state, suggest deliberate design choices—a visual language meant to convey authority. Curator: Exactly! It speaks to the complex relationship between art, labor, and power. This wasn't just about creating a functional object; it was about shaping perceptions and reinforcing a social order. Editor: Reflecting on its visual impact, the Stavraton’s materiality and symbolic weight intertwine, creating a tangible link to a bygone era. Curator: Yes, and examining this artifact enables us to consider its significance to the individuals who handled it daily.