Half-Stavraton of Manuel II c. 1391 - 1425

Editor: Here we have a Half-Stavraton of Manuel II. It’s so tiny, just over 3 grams! It feels almost strange to consider this an artwork. What can you tell me about it? Curator: Consider the coin's material, silver, and the labor involved in its production. It wasn't just about artistic expression, but also about economic control, social hierarchy, and trade networks. Who was involved in the mining, refining, and minting processes? Editor: So, it's less about Manuel II's artistic vision, and more about the systems that allowed this coin to exist and circulate? Curator: Precisely! It recontextualizes our idea of art as it links artistic creation to societal forces that give rise to cultural objects and consumption. Editor: That's fascinating. I'll definitely look at art differently now.