Tetradrachm of Antiochos VIII Grypos of Syria c. 121

Editor: This Tetradrachm of Antiochos VIII Grypos of Syria is quite something. It’s made of metal and feels quite dense. What can you tell me about it? Curator: The materiality speaks volumes, doesn't it? Silver, a valuable resource, underscores the power and economic control of Antiochos VIII. Consider the labor involved in its mining, refining, and crafting into a coin. This wasn't just currency; it was a propaganda tool. Editor: So, the silver itself is part of the message? Curator: Precisely! The material’s value communicated wealth and stability, crucial for a ruler asserting his authority. How effective do you think this form of material communication was? Editor: It really highlights the intersection of art, power, and economics in the ancient world. Thanks for sharing your perspective. Curator: Indeed, seeing art through the lens of its production and material context reveals a wealth of information.