Coin of Manuel I c. 12th century

Curator: Here we have a "Coin of Manuel I," held at the Harvard Art Museums. Considering Manuel I was both artist and subject, I'm curious about this artifact. Editor: It gives me a poignant feeling, almost like finding a lost charm. The deep reddish-brown patina speaks of age and history, doesn't it? Curator: Absolutely. Coins transcend mere currency; they are cultural artifacts, laden with symbolism. This one likely served as a symbol of Manuel's authority, circulated within his realm. Editor: I see two figures, one on each side. The figure on the left strikes me as Christ-like, could it be a symbol of divinity? Curator: Precisely. The imagery would reinforce Manuel's divine right to rule, a common practice throughout history. It's a declaration, etched in metal, about power and belief. Editor: There’s an undeniable beauty in how something so small can carry so much weight. It reminds us of the layers of meaning embedded in even the simplest objects from the past. Curator: Yes, it’s a tiny window into a world of faith, power, and enduring symbols. A reminder that history is always in our pockets, waiting to be discovered.