Coin of Herakleios c. 619 - 620

Editor: Here we have the Coin of Herakleios, made by Abd-al-Malik of the Umayyads. The wear on this coin is striking. What do you see in its composition? Curator: Observe how the figures on one side are rendered in a flat, linear style, contrasting with the abstract symbols on the reverse. The material's deterioration only serves to highlight these fundamental formal elements. Editor: So, the wear and tear paradoxically accentuates the original design? Curator: Precisely. The coin’s fragmented state emphasizes the interplay between representation and abstraction, form and decay, inviting contemplation of its intrinsic visual language. Editor: That’s a new way to look at it; I appreciate that insight. Curator: And I appreciate your sharp observations.