Antique gilded religious medal, Holy Childhood, children's scene, vintage

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This antique religious medal features a classic round shape with a visual finish reminiscent of gilded metal, consistent with the keywords. The finely detailed central scene depicts a representation of the Holy Childhood, surrounded by several kneeling or standing children, in prayer or adoration. The visible inscription in relief on the upper part of the medallion reads "SANCTA INFANTIA", while the lower part bears the inscription "SINITE PARVULOS VENIRE AD ME", which means "Let the little children come to me" in Latin.

The medallion is topped with a solid circular bail, allowing it to be easily worn as a pendant or on a rosary. The relief work highlights the religious scene, with stylized plant motifs on the left (probably palms or foliage) and identifiable architecture on the right, typical of Catholic missionary iconography. The medal has a uniform patina, with silvery reflections under the gilding depending on the angle of light, which emphasizes its age and visual authenticity.

The visible surface shows no major chips or deep scratches, but reveals some discreet signs of wear, consistent with ancient use. The contours are sharp, and the details of the face, clothing, and decorative elements are still well-defined despite time. The bail, integrated into the medal, appears original and in good visual condition.

The medal is placed on an old wooden box adorned with gilded motifs (not included), enhancing its decorative character. The overall scene and Latin typography suggest a production from the early to mid-20th century, typical of Catholic devotional objects distributed during missions or religious ceremonies.

This medal can be worn as a pendant, added to a rosary, or displayed in a showcase. Its touching iconography makes it a Christian devotional object or a sought-after vintage religious souvenir.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. Visible traces of wear and patina, with no apparent structural defects on the observable face.

Did you know? The Holy Childhood is a missionary work founded in Paris in 1843, dedicated to the protection and evangelization of children worldwide. Medals bearing the effigy of the Holy Childhood were often given during baptism ceremonies or first communions, particularly in France and in Catholic missions in Asia and Africa in the 19th and 20th centuries.

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Keywords: Holy Childhood medal, antique religious medal, gilded Catholic medal, vintage religious medallion, religious pendant, Infant Jesus medal, old catholic medal, vintage religious medal, devotional medal, missionary medal, gift medal, gilding on religious metal