AR Julia Domna 

Curator: This is a silver coin, “AR Julia Domna,” depicting Julia Domna, the wife of Roman Emperor Septimius Severus. Editor: It's so small, yet it feels monumental. The details are worn, but the weight of history is palpable. Curator: Absolutely. These coins served not just as currency but also as powerful propaganda. Consider Julia Domna’s prominent placement; it emphasizes the imperial family's strength and stability, particularly during a period of political turbulence. Editor: And it speaks to the ways in which women, even those in positions of power, were visualized and understood within the political structures of the Roman Empire. What does it mean to be represented on a coin? Curator: It highlights her role as a mother and a symbol of the dynasty’s continuity. These images were carefully crafted to project an image of piety and virtue. Editor: It's a fascinating glimpse into how power and gender were negotiated through art. Curator: Indeed. A lasting testament to the careful management of imagery within empire.