Tetradrachm of Alexandria under Diocletian c. 289 - 290

Editor: So, this is a Tetradrachm of Alexandria under Diocletian, currently held at the Harvard Art Museums. It's quite small, isn't it? The texture looks almost rough. What can you tell me about the formal qualities of this piece? Curator: The coin presents a compelling study in relief. Note how the incised lines create depth, defining the emperor's profile on one side and the figure on the other. The circular form emphasizes the contained, almost claustrophobic nature of power. Editor: Claustrophobic? That's interesting. The corrosion also contributes to the texture. Does that wear affect the design or our interpretation? Curator: The corrosion obscures, but it also reveals. The original design is fractured, yet the remaining lines retain their graphic power. It highlights the effects of time on both the object and the subject it represents. Editor: I never considered corrosion as a deliberate effect. Thanks for sharing your insight. Curator: And thank you for observing. The interplay of decay and design is quite remarkable.