Leaf of Diptych: Monogram of Areobindus. c. 6th century

Curator: Here we have "Leaf of Diptych: Monogram of Areobindus," an ivory carving currently residing at the Harvard Art Museums. It strikes me as a powerful symbol of status. Editor: Yes, the craftsmanship is quite apparent. I’m immediately drawn to the intricate detail carved into the ivory. You can really see the maker's hand in the vegetal forms. Curator: Absolutely. Diptychs like these were often commissioned by elites, signaling their influence through both the material itself and the complex iconography. This piece probably played a role in the display of power and the assertion of identity. Editor: Considering it’s ivory, I wonder about the environmental costs and the social implications connected to its acquisition. The level of detail would have required specialized tools and a high degree of skill. Curator: Indeed. It reflects not only individual artistry but also the social and economic systems that supported such production. The very act of patronage speaks to the patron's role within society. Editor: The monogram itself suggests a particular commission, one that celebrates an individual while simultaneously engaging with the long history of ivory carving. Curator: Exactly. A fascinating convergence of personal identity, political positioning, and material culture. Editor: A potent combination of skill, status, and raw material.