Hemidrachm of Demetrios Poliorketes of Macedonia, Tarsos c. 298

Curator: Here we have a Hemidrachm of Demetrios Poliorketes of Macedonia, crafted in Tarsos, location of the Harvard Art Museums. The coin, weighing just over two grams, presents a fascinating glimpse into the past. Editor: My first impression is how compressed the imagery feels, almost claustrophobic, like these powerful figures are trapped within these tiny metallic orbs. Curator: Indeed, the tight composition forces a certain symbolic intensity. On one side, we see Poseidon, trident aloft, embodying maritime power. On the other, a winged Victory stands on a ship's prow, a potent symbol of triumph. Editor: And the continuous reappearance of Poseidon throughout antiquity tells us about the human relationship to nature, the need to both dominate it and respect its power. The imagery speaks of naval dominance and the ruler's ambition. Curator: The coin's materiality itself speaks volumes, the cool, enduring silver a testament to power and permanence. Editor: Precisely. It's a miniature stage for the performance of power, reflecting the enduring human need to imprint meaning onto the material world. Curator: A compelling convergence of form and symbolic function, wouldn't you agree? Editor: Absolutely. A small object holding a rather large statement about identity and aspiration.