Vintage French Gymnastics Federation 1914 old bronze medal

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This antique medal, likely made of bronze based on the keywords provided, originates from the French Federation of Gymnastics and Sports Patronages. It features a classic circular shape with a molded suspension loop, allowing it to be worn on a ribbon or hung. The visible side displays a central relief composed of a shield surrounded by two laurel branches, traditional symbols of victory and sporting honor.

Around the edge, the embossed inscription is perfectly legible: "FÉDÉRATION GYMNASTIQUE ET SPORTIVE DES PATRONAGES DE FRANCE". In the lower part, further details specify the event and date: "CONCOURS DE SEINE-ET-OISE À DANNEMOIS 19 JUILLET 1914". A frieze of vegetal motifs completes the decoration, enhancing the solemn character of this period sports award.

The medal exhibits a uniform patina, typical of old bronze objects, with some visible signs of wear on the reliefs and edges. The surface has a slightly matte appearance, with subtle golden-brown hues. No chips or deformities are observable on the exposed face. The upper loop appears to be original and shows the same patina as the rest of the piece.

The medal is photographed resting on a mustard yellow velvet cushion, inside a round, beige zippered case, which enhances the piece while protecting it. The neutral background and natural light clearly reveal the engraving details without excessive shadows.

The design elements, embossed typography, and the precise date of 1914 allow this medal to be attributed to the Belle Époque period, just before World War I. Its style is typical of French sports awards from the early 20th century.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. Original patina, light signs of wear visible on the front, with no apparent missing parts or deformation.

Did you know? The Fédération Gymnastique et Sportive des Patronages de France (FGSPF), founded in 1898, played a major role in the democratization of gymnastics and sports in France. Annual competitions, such as the one in Seine-et-Oise in 1914, brought together hundreds of young people from patronages, contributing to the spread of sports practice throughout the country on the eve of the Great War.

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Keywords: antique French medal, bronze sports medal, FGSPF gymnastics medal, patronage award, early 20th century medal, old French medal, antique sports medal, vintage sports prize, brass medal, gymnastics distinction, 1914 competition medal, decorative bronze medal