Denarius of Elagabalus c. 219

Editor: Here we have a Denarius of Elagabalus from the Harvard Art Museums. It's small, silver, and worn with age. What strikes you about this coin, considering its place in history? Curator: Coins like this weren't just currency; they were propaganda. Elagabalus, a controversial figure, used imagery to craft a specific public image. Do you see any symbols or figures that might reveal his agenda? Editor: There's a figure seated, maybe a god? Curator: Precisely. Coins often depicted deities associated with the emperor, connecting the ruler to divine power and legitimizing their reign. Consider how this circulated, shaping public perception. What does that say about the power of images then, and even now? Editor: So, it’s not just money, but a message, carefully designed for mass consumption. I never thought about ancient social media before! Curator: Exactly. It highlights the intersection of art, power, and public opinion, reminding us of the enduring role of visual culture in shaping society.