Ira and Larry Goldberg Auctioneers
Auction 103 20-21 Feb 2018
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Basil I, the Macedonian. Gold Solidus (4.32 g), 867-886. Constantinople, 871-886. + IhS XIS REX REςNANTIЧM *, Christ enthroned facing, raising hand in benediction and holding Gospels. Reverse: bASILIOS Eτ COnSτAnτ AЧGGb', crowned busts of Basil and Constantine facing, holding patriarchal cross between them. DOC 2c; SB 1704. Small area on edge filed. Needle sharp. Extremely Fine. Estimate Value $500 - 600
The style of all of the portraits on this coin have a slightly western feel to them, yet the rest of the engraving - the dress, the angles, the cut of the letters, certain features such as the hands and arms - is purely Constantinopolitan. The reign of Basil I saw among many things a resurgence of Byzantine art. Simultaneously, in regards to matters of foreign policy there was renewed interest in the West. In fact, Byzantium even regained control of parts of southern Italy during the reign of Basil. Although it is simple speculation, it is interesting to consider other possible explanations for the peculiar portrait style seen here, perhaps related to the historical events during Basil's reign.
The style of all of the portraits on this coin have a slightly western feel to them, yet the rest of the engraving - the dress, the angles, the cut of the letters, certain features such as the hands and arms - is purely Constantinopolitan. The reign of Basil I saw among many things a resurgence of Byzantine art. Simultaneously, in regards to matters of foreign policy there was renewed interest in the West. In fact, Byzantium even regained control of parts of southern Italy during the reign of Basil. Although it is simple speculation, it is interesting to consider other possible explanations for the peculiar portrait style seen here, perhaps related to the historical events during Basil's reign.