As of Faustina II

Editor: Here we have an artifact called "As of Faustina II" located in the Harvard Art Museums, with the artist being Faustina II. It appears to be a coin. What historical narratives do you think it unveils? Curator: Well, this coin isn’t just metal; it's a piece of propaganda. Coins like these were tools used by the Roman Empire to project power and legitimacy. Faustina II, as Empress, represented a powerful, but also a vulnerable position. Editor: Vulnerable? How so? Curator: Her image, reproduced en masse, reinforced the Emperor’s authority, but also made her a symbol, open to interpretation and critique. Whose story does this coin serve? Who benefits from her image being circulated? Editor: I see what you mean. It highlights the intersection of power, gender, and representation. Thanks, that’s a lot to consider. Curator: Indeed. Considering context, power, and perspective is key to a fuller understanding.