Coin of Athalaric, Ravenna 527 - 534

Editor: This is a coin of Athalaric from Ravenna. It's so small and worn! What do you see in this piece? Curator: Notice the careful articulation of the facial features despite the coin's diminutive size and the patinated surface. The artist successfully conveys regal authority within a very limited sphere. How does its condition impact your understanding? Editor: It makes it feel more real, more tangible somehow. Like a connection to the past. Curator: Precisely. The imperfections are integral, not detracting. They add layers of meaning about time, use, and the hand of history. Editor: That's a fascinating perspective. Thanks! Curator: Indeed. A material object speaks volumes.