Tetarteron of Alexios III c. 14th century

Editor: Here we have the "Tetarteron of Alexios III" from the Harvard Art Museums. It’s a small coin, and what strikes me is how worn the images are, yet they still seem to carry some weight. What do you see in this piece? Curator: This coin speaks volumes about power, Editor. The images, though worn, reflect the symbolic language employed by Alexios III to legitimize his rule. Editor: Like how? Curator: Consider the iconography of Christ on one side and the emperor on the other, united by divine right. This coin served not just as currency, but as a constant reminder of the established order, a cultural memory impressed on the populace. Did that resonate with you? Editor: It does, actually. It’s amazing how a small object can hold so much meaning. Curator: Indeed! It's a potent reminder of how symbols shape our understanding of history and power.