Leaf of Diptych: Consul Theodorus Valentianus, 505 AD c. 6th century

Curator: This is a leaf from a diptych, dating to 505 AD, depicting Consul Theodorus Valentianus. Carved in ivory, it shows the Consul in the center medallion. Editor: It feels very stately, yet a bit static. The symmetry, the repeated motifs... it's like a carefully constructed performance of power. Curator: Precisely. The ivory itself would have been a luxury, symbolizing wealth and status. The images of the Consul are not just portraits, but symbols of his authority. Note the scepter and mappa. Editor: And the putti at the bottom, flanking what looks like money bags or spoils of office... almost like they are balancing him. Curator: They could represent the prosperity Valentianus promised to bring. The three figures at the top also seem to represent the emperor, potentially his imperial colleagues. Editor: It does feel carefully crafted. A show of power with a very specific image, almost as if it were a carefully crafted campaign ad. Curator: Yes, It really does become a record, reflecting specific social and political dynamics of its time. Editor: To see the ways in which power has been performed for centuries is really something.