Dirham of al-Mahdi, Al-Muhammadiyah (Masilah) c. 8th century

Curator: This is a dirham crafted by al-Mahdi in al-Muhammadiyah, part of the Harvard Art Museums collection. It’s a small, silver coin, weighing just under 3 grams. Editor: It strikes me as a humble object holding grand narratives of power. It looks almost fragile, yet it represents a complex socio-political system. Curator: Indeed. Currency like this dirham acted as a form of propaganda. Minted during al-Mahdi's reign, it served not only as a medium of exchange but as a declaration of authority, subtly shaping the political landscape. Editor: And we can’t overlook the layers of cultural significance! Consider the symbolism embedded within its inscriptions, reflecting religious ideologies and the ruler’s self-image. Curator: Precisely. Understanding this coin means unpacking the narratives of identity, power, and belief that were central to al-Mahdi's era. Editor: Analyzing its impact encourages us to consider the role of museums today and the politics of cultural heritage. Curator: It's a remarkable object that speaks volumes. Editor: A tangible reminder of the ever-present connection between material culture and ideology.