Coin of Timbriada under Julia Domna c. 2th - 3th century

Editor: This is a coin of Timbriada under Julia Domna, residing in the Harvard Art Museums. Its worn texture evokes a sense of history. What strikes you about its visual form? Curator: Note the deliberate circular composition, mirroring the coin's physical shape, echoing an Ouroboros. Even in its aged state, can you observe the incised lines which define the imperial portrait and the figure on the reverse? How does the artist use the medium to convey power? Editor: That's fascinating. The incised lines do seem to reinforce authority. I've never considered the Ouroboros imagery. Curator: Indeed. And this formal approach offers insight into an ancient method of circulating power.