Coin of Maxentius, Rome 308 - 310

Editor: Here we have a coin of Maxentius, from Rome. The portrait is intriguing, but I’m drawn to the structure on the other side. What does that temple signify? Curator: Indeed. The temple imagery is highly evocative. Consider how temples in Roman culture embodied not just religious belief, but also power, stability, and the emperor's connection to the divine. What feelings does that evoke in you? Editor: Security, maybe, but also rigidity. Is that intentional, or just how they represented power? Curator: The rigidity could symbolize the strength and permanence the emperor wished to project. Ask yourself, though, what does it mean to enshrine power in an object meant to circulate amongst the populace? Editor: So, it’s not just about power, but also accessibility. I hadn’t thought of that! Curator: Exactly. Symbols gain power through repeated exposure and cultural memory. Editor: This really highlights how images are shaped by both the artist and the culture. Thanks!