Coin of Manuel I c. 12th century

Editor: Here we have a copper coin, attributed to Manuel I. It looks like it's been through quite a lot! I’m curious about the figures depicted on it. What story do you see etched into this tiny, timeworn surface? Curator: Oh, this little coin whispers of grand empires and intricate beliefs. Can you see the emperor himself? I imagine Manuel, puffed up with the importance that only an emperor can truly understand, minting these to spread his image… and of course, to facilitate trade. Editor: So, it's less about art and more about imperial propaganda? Curator: Perhaps, or perhaps it's about imbuing the mundane with a sense of the divine right to rule. That’s always an interesting tightrope walk, don't you think? I learned something new today. Editor: Absolutely, that’s fascinating. Thanks!