Drachm of Ephesus, 330 B.C., from the Ancient Coins series (N180) issued by Wm. S. Kimball & Co. 1888

This is a photographic print made by Wm. S. Kimball & Co., depicting a Drachm of Ephesus from 330 B.C. The image presents two ancient coins side by side, each stamped with distinct motifs. The coin on the left features a bee, rendered with surprising anatomical detail. The insect’s body is segmented and textured, and its wings spread symmetrically across the coin's surface. To the right, a stag is depicted kneeling, its antlers rendered with fine lines, next to what appears to be a palm tree. The composition of each coin leverages the circular format to frame its central figure, while also destabilizing fixed meanings. The bee, a symbol of industry and community, is juxtaposed with the stag, a creature often associated with the wild. This contrast challenges us to consider the values and priorities of the society that produced these coins. The very act of capturing and re-presenting these ancient artifacts through photography engages with evolving modes of representation.