Attic Drachm of the Koinon of Thessaly c. 60 - 61

Editor: This is an Attic Drachm of the Koinon of Thessaly, made of silver. It's quite small, but the details are fascinating! What strikes you most about its composition? Curator: Note the intentionality of the circular form itself, framing two distinct yet related images. One side presents a profile, the other a dynamic animal form. What does the tension between static portraiture and active bestiality suggest to you? Editor: I hadn't considered that tension. Is it a contrast meant to highlight different aspects of Thessalian identity or power? Curator: Precisely. Consider how the artist uses line and relief to convey both idealized human form and the raw energy of the horse. The symmetry is not accidental, but carefully constructed. Editor: That's a brilliant observation; I see so much more now. Thank you! Curator: Indeed, analyzing the formal elements reveals layers of meaning that might otherwise remain hidden.