Coin of John II c. 12th century

Editor: Here we have a coin of John II from the Harvard Art Museums. It's quite small, but even on this scale, you can sense the weight of history it carries. What stands out to you? Curator: The images resonate with Byzantine notions of power and divinity. Notice how John II is depicted. What do those symbols tell us about how he wished to be perceived? Editor: He certainly wanted to project an image of strength and authority. The regalia is very telling. Curator: Exactly! Think of how carefully these images were chosen, crafted, and disseminated. This coin isn't just currency; it's a portable declaration of imperial ideology. Editor: It’s fascinating how much meaning can be packed into such a small object. Thanks for sharing your insights! Curator: Indeed, it's a powerful reminder of the enduring role of images in shaping our understanding of the past.