Old religious medal of Our Lady of St Germain, dark metal appearance, worn

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This religious medal features a classic round shape with an integrated bail for hanging, typical of devotional objects worn as pendants or attached to a rosary. On the visible side, a finely worked relief depicts the Virgin Mary, seated and veiled, holding the dead Christ on her lap, in the iconography of the Pietà. The whole is set within a raised triangle, a symbol often used in sacred art to evoke the Trinity. The scene occupies most of the surface, giving the medal an expressive and solemn dimension.

The semicircular inscription on the upper edge of the medal is clearly legible: "NOTRE DAME DE ST GERMAIN P.P.N." (Priez Pour Nous – Pray for Us). The letters are in slight relief, well-defined despite visible wear, attesting to its ancient use. The choice of a simple, classic lettering reinforces the traditional aspect of this medal.

The surface of the medal presents a dark, matte patina, with some metallic reflections under the light, suggesting an aged-looking alloy. No bright shine or gilding appears on the visible side, giving the object an authentic and sober look. The bail, set into the mass, appears solid and original, showing the same patina as the rest of the piece.

The contour is smooth, without additional decoration. Some signs of wear are visible, particularly on the prominent parts of the relief and at the bail, consistent with prolonged wear. No major defects are visible on the front, apart from discreet marks related to the object's age.

The whole is in line with the tradition of Christian devotional medals, used as objects of protection and prayer. The iconography of the Pietà and the mention of Saint Germain make it a testament to French religious heritage.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. Uniform wear, dark patina, legible relief. No visible chips or cracks on the presented side.

Did you know? The mention "Notre-Dame de Saint Germain" refers to an ancient tradition of Marian devotion in France, often associated with regional pilgrimage sites. Religious medals bearing this inscription were frequently distributed during large gatherings or blessings, and served as protective talismans for the faithful.

AFW Reassurance

Fast shipping and careful packaging guaranteed by a professional seller specializing in antique and religious objects.

Keywords: Notre-Dame medal, antique religious medal, Catholic piety, Saint Germain medal, religious pendant, prayer medal, medal religious, devotional medal, Virgin Mary Pietà, dark metal medal, pray for us medal, devotional object