Vintage bronze medal Bouches du Rhône General Council coat of arms in relief

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This antique bronze medal features a distinct relief and a matte finish, typical of official French productions from the mid to late 20th century. On the visible side, the embossed inscription "CONSEIL GENERAL DES BOUCHES DU RHONE" is clearly visible along the upper edge of the medal, immediately identifying its institutional origin.

The center of the medal highlights a stylized representation of the Bouches-du-Rhône department, with the main cities embossed in relief: Arles, Istres, Aix, and Marseille. This cartography is surmounted by three distinct coats of arms (a lion, a star, vertical bands and stars) and a fourth coat of arms at the bottom adorned with a cross, each symbolizing heraldic elements specific to the region.

The surface has a homogeneous patinated appearance, without brilliant polishing, which reinforces its vintage and institutional character. The details of the design, such as the waves at the bottom of the map or the texture of the coats of arms, are finely carved, demonstrating careful minting work typical of French commemorative or honorary medals.

On the lower edge of the main coat of arms, the inscription "R. BE" is visible, likely the engraver's signature or an abbreviation of a specialized workshop producing official medals.

The reverse of the medal is not visible in the photo; only the obverse is described here. The object is displayed on a carved wooden piece of furniture, highlighting its bronze-brown hue and classic circular format.

Condition

Used medal, sold as is. The surface shows a homogeneous patina, with no apparent chips or scratches on the visible side. Wear consistent with an object used for institutional presentation or decoration.

Did you know? The General Council of Bouches-du-Rhône, created in 1790 during the French Revolution, is a central institution in the department's administrative life. Medals minted in its colors were often presented during official events or to recognize services rendered to the community.

AFW Reassurance

Careful and fast shipping from France, professional packaging adapted to protect historical and decorative objects.

Keywords: antique bronze medal, institutional decoration, Bouches du Rhône coat of arms, official French medal, vintage commemorative medal, General Council, administrative medal, French medal, departmental medal, relief map, regional medal, bronze medal France