Coin of John II c. 12th century

Editor: This is a coin, presumably from the reign of John II. The material and age are immediately striking, and the level of detail is impressive considering its size. How do you interpret the design and the coin’s overall aesthetic? Curator: We can appreciate the formal arrangement of the coin's imagery. Note the deliberate placement of figural elements, the textures created through the engraving, and the subtle variations in the coin's patinated surface. Do you observe how the lines create a sense of depth despite the shallow relief? Editor: Yes, I see how the lines define the figures, but what about the coin’s function? Curator: Functionally, it was currency, but formally, the design served to legitimize power, communicating authority through carefully chosen symbols and artistic execution. Editor: I see, so the coin's design and physical qualities reinforce the message of power and authority. Curator: Precisely. Studying the form allows us to understand its intended impact.