As of Faustina II c. 2th century

Curator: Here we have an "As" coin of Faustina II, currently held in the Harvard Art Museums collection. The patinated bronze gives it a rather haunting presence. Editor: I agree, the green hue evokes a sense of decay and historical distance. It makes me think about the power dynamics at play in imperial Rome. Curator: The coin's circular form, divided into obverse and reverse, presents a formal balance, despite the wear. The portrait of Faustina is rendered with careful attention to detail, capturing the imperial ideal. Editor: I see not just an "ideal" but a carefully constructed image of female power within a patriarchal structure. It's a reminder of the complexities of women's roles in ancient societies. Curator: Indeed, and viewing it today, it is important to consider how time and materiality have changed our perception. Editor: Absolutely. Reflecting on it, I feel a connection to both the grandeur and the vulnerabilities of a distant era. Curator: I concur. Its design and state of preservation offer invaluable insight into the Roman aesthetic.