Drachm of Vologeses II of Parthia, Ecbatana? c. 105 - 147

Curator: Here we have a Drachm of Vologeses II of Parthia, a silver coin now residing at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It's striking, even in its eroded state. The bas-relief imagery possesses a certain gravitas. Curator: Indeed. The coin depicts Vologases, his regal headdress a potent symbol of Parthian authority and continuity. It speaks to the divine right of kings. Editor: The composition is fascinating. Notice the intentional placement of the royal bust, nearly breaching the circular boundary, creating a sense of dynamic energy. Curator: These coins were, in essence, miniature billboards, disseminating the ruler's image and validating his legitimacy throughout the empire. Its symbolism is a powerful form of communication. Editor: The object's material presence, its age and wear, imbue it with a tangible history. The worn surface adds a layer of visual complexity. Curator: Reflecting on this object, I'm struck by how artifacts like this bridge the personal and the political, inviting reflection on power, representation, and cultural identity. Editor: Yes, examining its composition and texture prompts questions about value, circulation, and the impermanence inherent in material objects.