Ramazan UYKUR

Keywords: the Artukid rule,Artukid coins,rulership,symbol of power in coinage

Abstract

This study examines a group of coins minted in the 11th and 12th centuries for the Artukid rulers, who ruled the South-East Anatolia. The coins in question enable us to have a broad understanding on the figurative representation and iconography of the medieval art. The portrait of an anonymous ruler is the most popular theme seen on the coins. The main aim of the article is to evaluate the iconography of the portraits of ruler - most probably used as the symbol of the power- on the Artukid coins. Key Words: the Artukid rule, Artukid coins, rulership, symbol.