Antique religious medal Lourdes, Virgin Mary design, silver plated, vintage

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This old religious medal has a polylobed shape evoking a stylized floral motif. On the visible side, it features a bas-relief decoration depicting the Virgin Mary, surrounded by a cartouche where the inscription "LOURDES" is clearly visible on the right side. The mention "NOTRE DAME" is partially visible on the left, confirming the Marian theme specific to Lourdes pilgrimage souvenirs.

The surface of the medal has a matte silver-plated finish, punctuated by decorative chiseled patterns on the perimeter, typical of French religious productions from the early to mid-20th century. The whole is adorned with small floral motifs and volutes, giving the piece a delicate and traditional character. The medal has a dark-colored metal suspension ring, allowing easy attachment to a chain, rosary, or keyring.

The central, well-marked relief highlights the figure of the Virgin in a prayer position, a classic iconographic signature of Lourdes religious objects. The slightly patinated aspect of the surface, associated with micro-scratches and signs of wear, testifies to the medal's age and its authenticity as an object of popular piety.

The visible edge reveals a moderate thickness, suitable for a pendant or charm-type medal. The whole does not show any visible structural deficiencies, and the legibility of the inscription as well as the clarity of the central motif make it a choice piece for lovers of religious iconography.

This type of medal, often brought back from Lourdes during pilgrimages, was traditionally offered as a token of protection or as a souvenir of a visit to the Marian sanctuary. Its elaborate shape and chiseled decoration make it an emblematic witness to French religious production of the last century.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. Signs of use, visible patina, superficial wear consistent with age. The suspension ring shows slight oxidation.

Did you know? The town of Lourdes is one of the largest centers of Catholic pilgrimage in the world since the Marian apparitions of 1858. Lourdes medals, produced from the late 19th century, are renowned for their specific iconography and chiseled decorations, often made of silver-plated metal or aluminum for popular models.

AFW Reassurance

Careful packaging and fast shipping. Professional seller specializing in antique and religious items.

Keywords: religious medal Lourdes, Virgin Mary, antique medal, religious pendant, vintage medallion, Lourdes charm, pilgrimage souvenir, silver metal medal, catholic medal, pious medal, object of piety, Notre-Dame Lourdes medal