copy, exhibit case layout
Object label written for the reinstallation of the Greek and Roman Galleries of the Rhode Island School of Design Museum of Art.
Unknown artist, Greek
Four-drachma coin (tetradrachm), ca. 420-355 BCE
Silver
Depicted on this coin is a lyre, a popular instrument in the ancient world. The Greeks commemorated births, harvests, banquets, and deaths with music. Poetry was written to have musical accompaniment, musical competitions were held during athletic contests, and musicians gained fame for their skill and compositions. This coin honors Apollo, god of the sun and music. Apollo’s representations share a repetitive yet unique nature. The sun rises every day and the beats and rhythms of music can be repeated, but no day or performance is ever the same.