Denarius (Coin) Portraying Emperor Domitian
88-89
Medium
Silver
Dimensions
Diam.: 1.8 cm (3/4 in.)
Classification
coin
Department
Arts of Greece, Rome, and Byzantium
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
141824
Art Historical Context
This exquisite silver denarius, minted around 88-89 CE during the reign of Emperor Domitian, offers a glimpse into the power and propaganda of ancient Rome. Measuring just 1.8 cm in diameter, this coin from the Art Institute of Chicago's Arts of Greece, Rome, and Byzantium collection features a detailed portrait of Domitian on the obverse, a common imperial practice to symbolize the ruler's divine authority and presence across the vast empire. Domitian, who ruled from 81 to 96 CE, used such coinage to broadcast his military victories and architectural achievements, like the restoration of the ...
About the Artist
Ancient Roman
The artists attributed to "Ancient Roman" in museum collections represent the anonymous craftsmen who produced the vast output of sculpture, frescoes, mosaics, and reliefs defining Roman visual culture from the Republic (c. 509–27 BCE) to the late Empire (c. 395 CE). Individual identities remain elusive, as Roman makers were typically viewed as skilled tradesmen—often enslaved Greeks or provincial...