Labour Medal Metallurgical Industries BdR 1952 G. BERARD bronze

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This round, bronze-look labor medal features detailed relief illustrating several symbols of 20th-century industry. On the visible side, a steam locomotive in motion on tracks is prominently displayed in the foreground, evoking industrial progress and the railway sector. In the background, a factory with tall smoking chimneys and an industrial gantry recalls the metallurgical world. At the top of the medal, a stylized ocean liner sails on the sea, suggesting openness to maritime transport and the international reach of industry.

The inscription "MÉDAILLE DU TRAVAIL" (Labor Medal) is in raised capital letters on the upper part of the medal. The overall composition highlights the industrial dynamism of the Bouches-du-Rhône region in the early 1950s, in connection with the date 1952 indicated in the keywords. The medal bears the signature "G. BERARD", the engraver's signature, subtly integrated into the design.

The bronze finish gives the object a homogeneous patina, with brown nuances typical of this type of honorary award. No other color details or enamel are visible on this side. The texture of the relief is clear, and the details of the machines and buildings are finely chiseled, attesting to meticulous engraving work.

The reverse side of the medal is not visible in the photo, so it is not described here. The ensemble evokes a typical mid-20th century industrial design, with a balanced composition and a figurative style characteristic of the era.

Condition

Used item sold as is. Slight signs of wear visible on the surface, consistent with the medal's age. Presence of a uniform patina, with no chips, deep scratches, or apparent missing parts on the presented side.

Did you know? The Labor Medal was instituted in France to reward the seniority and dedication of employees in industry and crafts. The metallurgical industries of Bouches-du-Rhône played a key role in the economic boom of the region, particularly around Marseille and the Étang de Berre, from the 19th century until the 1950s.

AFW Reassurance

Careful packaging and fast shipping with tracking. Professional seller specializing in historical and decorative objects.

Keywords: labor medal, metallurgical industries, G. BERARD, 1952, industry award, bronze medal, worker decoration, BdR factories, French medal, industrial worker, industrial medal, French labor medal