Coin of Maurice Tiberius c. 591 - 592

This coin, made by Maurice Tiberius, is a real gem—or rather, a real coin. I'm not sure when it was made, but what strikes me is the force and intention involved in making something so small, and the amount of time that's passed since. Imagine the artist, hunched over, carefully striking the metal. Each mark, each line, a deliberate act to create something of value. And you know, I always think about time when I look at really old things. I wonder about the intentions of artists over centuries, and what they might think of the place their work has found in the world. The coin is small, but holds such an enormous presence. Even though it’s so old, it still speaks to the care and attention that goes into any artwork, no matter the size. It’s like all artists, in a way, are having a conversation. We learn from each other, inspire each other, and keep the creative spirit alive through the ages.