Denarius of Julia Mamaea c. 227

Editor: This is a silver denarius featuring Julia Mamaea. The crispness of the relief is striking, even now. What stands out to you? Curator: I am immediately drawn to the circular form, and how the die engraver has used the constraints of that shape to frame the bust of Julia Mamaea. Note the careful placement of the inscription, which acts as a border, reinforcing the coin's inherent geometry. Editor: So, the form dictates the content? Curator: Precisely. The design elements are not merely representational; they are intrinsically linked to the object's function and materiality. The use of silver, too, contributes to the overall aesthetic. Editor: That’s a great way to consider it. I was so focused on the figure that I failed to observe that. Curator: The visual impact of the coin resides in the relationship between its function as currency and its aesthetic qualities.