Tari of Roger II of Sicily Possibly 1132

Editor: Here we have the Tari of Roger II of Sicily, a small gold coin. It feels very tactile and humble despite the precious metal. What strikes you about this piece? Curator: I'm drawn to the means of its production. Consider the labor invested in mining, refining, and striking such a small object. Its value resided not just in the gold, but the control of its production and distribution. Editor: So, you see it as a statement about power through material control? Curator: Precisely. The coin bridged cultures with both Arabic script and Christian symbols, yet it was about controlling the flow of resources and shaping social structures. What do you make of that? Editor: It's fascinating to think about something so small having such a large social impact. Curator: Indeed, revealing the intricate dance between materiality and power.