Coin of Agathokles, Tyrant of Syracuse c. 317

Editor: Here we have a coin crafted by Agathokles of Syracuse. It's quite small, yet commands attention even in its worn condition. What strikes you most about its form and texture? Curator: The composition intrigues me. Observe how the profile portrait dominates one side, a stark contrast to the inscription on the other. Do you perceive a tension between representation and abstraction here? Editor: I do. The portrait is a figure, while the inscription is lettering, both are different and yet they form the same object. I learned something new today. Curator: Indeed. The interplay of these elements offers a glimpse into the artistic sensibilities of the time.