As of Faustina II 145 - 146

Editor: We're looking at an "As" of Faustina II. It's a small, metallic coin, and it feels so ancient, so tactile! What do you notice about its composition? Curator: The coin presents a compelling study in relief. Note how the effigy of Faustina is rendered in high relief on the obverse, contrasting with the lower relief of the figure on the reverse. Consider the interplay of light and shadow this creates, enhancing the dimensionality. Editor: So, the depth creates interest. Is there a tension between the two sides? Curator: Precisely. The patinated surface, while obscuring fine detail, contributes to an overall aesthetic of age and historical weight. Observe also the coin's circular form, a self-contained universe of imperial representation, fragmented in its preservation. How does its materiality affect your experience? Editor: It is like holding a tiny piece of history. It all comes down to how the artist uses those simple elements to convey a sense of power and history. Curator: Indeed. The formal elements speak volumes about the values and aesthetics of its time.