Anonymous Follis c. 1050 - 1060

Editor: This is an Anonymous Follis, and it’s at the Harvard Art Museums. Looking at it, I am struck by the texture of the piece and the contrast between the figure and the text. What do you see when you look at this? Curator: Formally, observe the stark contrast. The iconographic elements are clear despite the wear and tear. Consider how the circular shape contains both the figure and the inscription, each demanding equal visual weight. What do these intrinsic qualities suggest to you? Editor: I see balance, perhaps, despite the asymmetry created by the wear. Curator: Precisely. It is in the tension between the intended form and its current state that we grasp its complexity. It invites us to reflect on time, use, and inherent value. Editor: Thank you. I’ll definitely look closer at the shape and wear next time.