Coin of Constantine VII c. 945 - 950

Editor: This is a coin of Constantine VII. It’s quite small and worn, and I find it interesting that this kind of object was once used as currency. What can you tell me about the role of imagery on coins in that period? Curator: Coins were powerful tools for disseminating political and religious ideologies. Consider how Constantine VII uses his own image and inscriptions to project authority and legitimize his rule within the Byzantine Empire. It highlights the intersection of art, power, and social control. Editor: That’s fascinating! So, the coin wasn't just money; it was a form of propaganda? Curator: Precisely. The visual language served to reinforce the emperor's divine right and project an image of stability and strength, influencing public perception. Editor: It really makes you think about how even the smallest objects can carry significant cultural weight. Curator: Absolutely. This coin is a tangible link to a complex historical narrative, where art and politics were inextricably linked.