Antique 1905 Bronze Medal Primary Education France Award

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description
This antique medal, presented in a red velvet case, is a French commemorative piece dated 1905. Round and flat in appearance, it displays a bronze-brown patina typical of official medals from the early 20th century. The relief scene depicts a standing female figure, crowned with laurels, offering an object to two children seated at a desk, evoking a moment of teaching or award ceremony. The partially legible circular inscription at the top of the medal mentions "ENSEIGNEMENT" (EDUCATION), "VILLE DE PARIS" (CITY OF PARIS) and hints at a reference to primary education.

The engraving work is particularly meticulous: the drapery, faces, and details of the composition are finely executed, characteristic of official productions of the Third Republic. The medal rests on a dark background decorated with golden floral motifs, which highlights the warm reflections and slightly satiny texture of the surface.

The case, visible in the photo, is covered in deep red velvet, with a matching interior, designed to protect and present the medal. This case accentuates the solemn and ceremonial nature of the object, often awarded during school prizes or institutional events.

The edge of the medal is not visible in the photo; only the obverse is shown. No manufacturer's mark is legible here, but the signature "Louis Bottée" appears at the bottom, indicating the engraver, known for his official creations during the Belle Époque. The medal shows some slight signs of wear and a homogeneous patina, testifying to its age, without major visible damage on this side.

The ensemble evokes an object of school history, typical of French civilian decorations awarded for merit or success in primary education during the Belle Époque.

Condition
Used item sold as is. Slight wear on the visible surface of the medal, uniform patina, original case in good apparent condition. Please refer to the photo to appreciate the details and exact condition of the item.

Did you know? Education medals awarded in France at the beginning of the 20th century were often engraved by renowned artists, such as Louis Bottée, and served to reward deserving students or teachers. The City of Paris long commissioned this type of decoration to promote public education and value academic success.

AFW Reassurance
Fast shipping and careful packaging. Professional seller specializing in antique and historical objects.

Keywords: reward medal, school medal, bronze France, Louis Bottée, Paris medal, education decoration, antique medal, 1905 medal, school award, French medal, education medal, Belle Époque medal