Antique Marseille 1909 Medal in Box, Patinated Bronze, Commercial Courses

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This antique medal, presented in its original gilded box, is an emblematic testament to Marseille's history at the beginning of the 20th century. The medal features a patinated bronze finish, characteristic of many official creations from that period. On the visible side, the finely carved relief depicts two nude figures, one male and one female, in an allegorical maritime scene: the woman, seated with a globe, extends her hand to the man who appears to emerge from the water, while a stylized sailboat occupies the background.

The square presentation box is covered with a dark, leather-look coating, adorned on the lid with a gilded motif representing an anchor, crossed flags, and maritime elements, enhanced by a central "CAD" monogram. This type of case highlights the official and ceremonial nature of the medal.

The ensemble exhibits an aesthetic typical of the early 20th century, both in its allegorical composition and its decorative style. The bronze patina offers brown and copper nuances, accentuating the relief and the delicacy of the engraving work. No text is legible on the medal from this view, but the scene and the box clearly evoke a maritime context related to the city of Marseille, consistent with the "Cours Commerciaux 1909" keyword mention.

The medal rests in its original box, on a light-colored interior lining, which enhances the dark hue of the bronze. The details of the box, particularly the still visible gilding and the rigid structure, testify to the care taken in the presentation and preservation of the object.

Condition

Used item sold as is. The medal shows a beautiful, even patina, with no visible chips or deformation on the displayed side. The box shows some minor signs of wear from use, mainly on the edges, but retains its distinctive gilded decoration and protective function.

Did you know? The "Cours Commerciaux" medal of Marseille, created in 1909, was among the distinctions awarded during major educational and economic events, celebrating the vitality of commerce and education in Marseille, then one of the largest ports in the Mediterranean. Medals from this era were often made by renowned engravers and distributed during official ceremonies.

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Keywords: Marseille bronze medal, antique medal 1909, Cours Commerciaux medal, maritime medal, patinated bronze decoration, official French medal, old French medal, vintage medal France, antique medal box, historical Marseille medal, trade medal, bronze medallion