Coin of Pella under the Emperor Philip I (the Arab) c. 3th century

Editor: This is a coin of Pella under the Emperor Philip I, the Arab, currently held at the Harvard Art Museums. It's small, and the green patina hints at its age. What can we learn from it? Curator: This coin speaks volumes about cultural exchange and power dynamics. Philip I, an emperor of Arab descent, ruling in Pella—a city with Greek roots—highlights the intersectionality of identities within the Roman Empire. How does this coin challenge our understanding of Roman identity as solely European? Editor: That’s a good point! I hadn't considered the implications of Philip's Arab heritage. Curator: Consider also the iconography. Does it reflect a Roman, Greek, or Arab visual language? By examining these elements, we can deconstruct the complex power structures at play and reveal marginalized perspectives. Editor: It's fascinating to think how one small coin can open up such a rich discussion about identity and power. Thanks for sharing your perspective! Curator: It's crucial to remember that even seemingly simple objects can offer invaluable insights into the complexities of our shared history.