One-Eighth Stavraton of John VII 1390

Editor: Here we have a One-Eighth Stavraton of John VII, a small coin housed at the Harvard Art Museums. I find it compelling how such a seemingly insignificant object can carry so much history. What stories do you think this coin holds? Curator: Absolutely. Coins like this are potent symbols of power, trade, and identity. John VII's reign was tumultuous; this coin perhaps speaks to the instability of his rule, a physical manifestation of Byzantine power circulating amidst political upheaval. How does its diminutive size impact your interpretation? Editor: I guess it emphasizes the fragility of power. Even something meant to represent authority is small and easily lost. Curator: Precisely. Consider the socio-political context. Who held and used this coin? How did it affect their daily lives? This object opens a window into their world, reflecting inequality and power dynamics. Editor: It's incredible to think about the hands this little coin passed through. Thanks for pointing out the bigger picture! Curator: My pleasure. It's through these intersectional lenses that we can truly appreciate the artwork's depth and relevance.