Vintage Art Deco bronze medal from the Société Industrielle de l’Aisne

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This antique bronze medal features a relief composition typical of French industrial productions from the early to mid-20th century. The visible side displays an idealized male profile, rendered in a classical style, surrounded by a cogwheel evoking industry. The inscription "SOCIÉTÉ INDUSTRIELLE DE L’AISNE FONDÉE EN 1839" (Industrial Society of Aisne Founded in 1839) is finely engraved in an arc along the upper edge, while the signature "R. BEAUCH" appears on the lower right, indicating the artist or medallist. The bottom of the medal also bears the date 1839, referring to the society's founding.

The bronze's patina, in brown to reddish-brown tones, reveals some signs of use and natural nuances, giving the object an authentic character and visual depth sought after by collectors of historical items. The details of the face, hair, and cogwheel are particularly well-executed, demonstrating the medallist's expertise.

The medal is circular in shape with significant relief, clearly visible in the photo. No reverse side or attachment element is visible in the provided image; the description pertains only to the front side.

This type of honorary medal was typically awarded at ceremonies, industrial exhibitions, or competitions to recognize contributors to the regional industrial sector. The overall design and typography suggest an Art Deco style, common in French medals from the 1920s to 1940s, despite the mentioned founding date of 1839.

The signature "R. BEAUCH" likely refers to a recognized artist or medallist of the period, adding further interest to the piece.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. The medal displays a uniform patina, some wear marks, and slight handling traces, typical of an antique object.

Did you know? The Société Industrielle de l’Aisne, founded in 1839, played a major role in promoting and developing industrial activities in the Aisne department. Medals awarded by such societies were often created by specialized medallist artists, and their production reflects the evolution of French artistic styles from the late 19th to the early 20th century.

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Keywords: antique bronze medal, industrial medal, Art Deco France, award medal, commemorative medal, Société Industrielle de l’Aisne, vintage medal, Art Deco medal, medal society founded 1839, French bronze medal, artisanal medal, decorative medal