Sestertius of Alexander Severus c. 3th century

Editor: Here we have a Sestertius of Alexander Severus from the Harvard Art Museums. It's incredible to hold something so old and small. What do you notice about the way it's designed? Curator: Note the use of line and form. The incised profile, surrounded by text, creates a strong circular composition, typical of coinage. The verdigris adds texture, obscuring some details but also enhancing the sense of antiquity. Editor: So, the coin's physical state contributes to its meaning? Curator: Precisely. The degradation of the material is part of its visual narrative. The original clarity is lost, but replaced with the patina of time. It's a degradation that becomes part of its aesthetic identity. Editor: That's a new way of thinking about art for me. Thanks for your insight.