Sestertius (Coin) Portraying Emperor Gordianus
238-244
Medium
Bronze
Dimensions
Diam.: 2.9 cm (1 3/16 in.)
Classification
coin
Department
Arts of Greece, Rome, and Byzantium
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
141769
Art Historical Context
This bronze sestertius, struck during the reign of Emperor Gordian III238–244 CE), captures the youthful profile of the Roman emperor on its obverse, a common feature of imperial coinage designed to disseminate the ruler's image across the vast empire. Measuring just 2.9 cm in diameter this everyday currency from the chaotic "Year of the Six Emper" served not only as money but as propaganda, affirming Gordian III's legitimacy after the rapid turnover of leaders in 238 CE. As a teenage emperor propped up by the military and Senate, his portrayal emphasized stability and divine favor in turbulen...
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...