Solidus (Coin) Portraying Emperor Constantine I
Late 324-early 325, issued by Constantine I
Medium
Gold
Dimensions
Diam.: 1.9 cm (3/4 in.)
Classification
coin
Department
Arts of Greece, Rome, and Byzantium
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
96052
Art Historical Context
This exquisite gold solidus, struck in late 324 to early 325 CE under Emperor Constantine I, captures the powerful visage of one of Rome's most transformative rulers. Measuring just 1.9 cm in diameter, this tiny masterpiece from the Art Institute of Chicago Arts of Greece, Rome and Byzantium department exemplifies precision of ancient Roman minting techniques. The emperor's portrait, likely idealized on the obverse to convey authority and divinity, was created using finely engraved dies that impressed intricate details onto pure gold blanks, ensuring both beauty and durability. Minted during ...
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...