100 karbovanets of the Ukrainian State (avers) 1918

This is a 100 karbovanets note from the Ukrainian State, created by Heorhiy Narbut. The paper has a real delicacy to it, like the kind of thing you might find tucked away in an old book. Look at the details in the pattern work of this bill. It's amazing how much information Narbut packs into such a small space. See the circular frame that is repeated around the edge? There's a beautiful, rhythmic quality to the whole composition that makes me think about the way that currency can become almost like a piece of abstract art. Each tiny detail contributing to a complex overall design. There’s a lot of lettering here in the local language, and for me, someone who can't read it, the whole thing has a graphic, almost painterly quality. It reminds me in a way of some of Kurt Schwitters collages. The layering of different languages and textures creates a sense of depth and complexity that invites you to look closer and discover new details. It's a kind of conversation across time and cultures.