Follis of Herakleios, Constantinople c. 613

Editor: Here we have a Follis of Herakleios, Constantinople, made by Abd-al-Malik. It's quite small, almost easy to miss, yet it feels so weighty with history. What story does it tell you? Curator: It speaks volumes about cultural exchange and power dynamics. Abd-al-Malik, an Umayyad Caliph, produced coinage visually referencing Byzantine prototypes. What does that suggest to you? Editor: Perhaps a strategic play, adopting familiar imagery to ease acceptance of the new rule? Curator: Precisely! Appropriation of visual language was a powerful tool. This coin highlights how art served political agendas, subtly shaping public perception during periods of transition. Editor: I never considered coinage in that light, it's fascinating. Curator: Indeed, even the smallest object can be a potent symbol.