Coin of Odessos under the Emperor Elagabalus c. 3th century

Editor: This object is a bronze coin of Odessos under the reign of Emperor Elagabalus. I'm struck by the fact that it's a mass-produced object yet holds such historical weight. What can you tell me about it? Curator: Consider the materiality of bronze and the labor involved in its production and distribution. Minting these coins under Elagabalus fueled the economy, but also served as propaganda, circulating his image and solidifying his power through material means. Editor: So, the coin is less about artistry and more about economics and social control? Curator: Precisely. The images and inscriptions are tools employed within the material production of power and ideology. Editor: That's a different way of looking at ancient art than I'm used to! Curator: Seeing art through the lens of material conditions reveals hidden power structures.