Coin of Justinian I c. 541 - 542

Editor: Here we have a coin created by Justinian I. I’m struck by the contrast between the clarity of the imagery and the roughness of the coin’s surface. What do you see in this piece? Curator: The coin’s composition is rigorously structured: consider the concentric rings framing the central figure. The use of line and form creates a balanced, hierarchical design. Editor: It's interesting how such a small object could have such a layered, well-thought-out design. Curator: Indeed. The formal elements speak volumes about the artistic intentions and the cultural values embedded within it. Editor: That’s a great observation! This coin really made me think about how design reflects values.