Coin of Alexios III c. 1197 - 1203

Curator: This is a gold coin, issued under the reign of Alexios III. Editor: It’s striking how much detail they managed to fit on such a small surface. Curator: Indeed. Consider the Byzantine iconography – on one side, Christ, and on the other, Alexios with Saint Constantine. Notice the way the figures are rendered, frontal and hieratic. Editor: The flattening is interesting. It emphasizes symbolism over naturalism, the divine authority over earthly presence, in a very persuasive and enduring manner. Curator: Coins like this served a crucial role in legitimizing the emperor's power. The imagery and inscription were carefully designed to project authority and divine favor. Editor: It’s a potent little artifact, really, carrying so much political and religious weight despite its size. Curator: Precisely, and the coin’s materiality, the use of gold, further underscores the emperor’s wealth and power. Editor: It certainly gives one a lot to consider about the intersection of art and power. Curator: It does, a fascinating glimpse into the Byzantine world.