Sestertius of Philip I c. 3th century

Editor: Here we have a Sestertius of Philip I, the Arab, from the Harvard Art Museums. The material seems to be metal, judging by the color and texture. It looks quite worn, but I'm curious – what stands out to you about its design and composition? Curator: The patinated surface immediately draws the eye. Note how the corrosion isn't merely degradation, but contributes to the coin’s present aesthetic. The incuse portrait, juxtaposed with the figure on the reverse, presents a duality of power. Editor: I hadn't thought about the duality. So the wear and tear adds to its story? Curator: Precisely. The arrangement, the surface, the marks of time—all crucial to understanding its aesthetic presence. Editor: That's a completely new perspective for me; thank you!