Antique Paul Melizan Catholic High School Marseille Patinated Bronze Medal

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This old medal features a relief depicting a male profile portrait, at the center of the obverse side. The effigy is surrounded by an inscription in raised capital letters: "PAUL MELIZAN LYCÉE CATHOLIQUE MARSEILLE DOCUIT LAETUS FERICIANS". The style of the portrait, as well as the typography and patination, suggest it was made in the early to mid-20th century, although a precise dating cannot be confirmed from the image alone.

The medal is circular, with a slightly raised edge. The surface has a patinated finish, typical of bronze medals or those with an antique metallic appearance, with shades ranging from golden brown to shaded grey, creating a sense of depth in the relief. The patina indicates the passage of time, highlighting the raised areas and accentuating the facial features and the letters of the inscription.

Paul Melizan's portrait is rendered in an academic style, with particular attention paid to the anatomical details of the face and neck. The medal appears to have been struck or cast using a traditional method, as indicated by the texture of the background and the sharpness of the raised motifs. No other symbols, numbers, or visible marks appear on the presented side.

The medal is photographed on a wooden surface, with a library background, but only the obverse and the rim are visible. No elements of the reverse or the edge can be observed in this image.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. The surface shows a homogeneous patina with traces of wear and marks related to age, visible throughout the relief. No major chips or apparent deformation on the visible side.

Did you know? Paul Melizan was an eminent figure in Catholic education in Marseille, and a Catholic high school in the city was named after him. Honorary medals bearing his effigy were often awarded as academic merit prizes or on official occasions within the institution during the 20th century.

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