Coin of Parlais under Commodus c. 2th century

Curator: This is a coin from Parlais under Commodus, currently held at the Harvard Art Museums. The coin weighs 2.59 grams. Editor: It feels like looking at a relic, the patinated surface hinting at centuries gone by. The low relief invites touch, an almost tactile connection to the past. Curator: The material integrity is fascinating—observe the perfect circle, and the careful balance between obverse and reverse. The coin's form emphasizes its function. Editor: And what a powerful function! Here, the lion represents strength, and by extension, the power of Commodus himself. It's a classic symbol, loaded with meaning. Curator: Indeed. The lion form is presented in profile, a common visual language. But consider also the skill in rendering the lion in such limited space—each line deliberate. Editor: Right. Seeing that lion makes you think of conquest, of royal power, and of history. The coin becomes a microcosm of the Commodus regime. Curator: Absolutely, it's an elegantly efficient expression using form and space. Editor: Quite. It’s remarkable how one small object can evoke so much.