Vintage silver-plated metal SANCTA INFANTIA antique religious medal Catholic

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This antique religious medal features a classic round shape, with a suspension ring at the top, allowing it to be worn as a pendant or attached to a chain. Made of metal (according to the keywords), it has a matte silver visual appearance, typical of devotional objects from the early to mid-20th century. The surface shows a neat relief depicting a central female figure (presumably the Virgin Mary) surrounded by several kneeling and standing children, in a scene of protection and blessing. This motif is framed by stylized vegetation on the left and a religious building on the right.

The medal bears the Latin inscription "SANCTA INFANTIA" at the top, meaning "Holy Childhood". On the lower part of the circumference, the inscription "SINITE PARVULOS VENIRE AD ME" can be distinguished, a Latin quote from the Gospels ("Let the little children come to me"). These iconographic and textual elements are characteristic of medals from the Society of the Holy Childhood, a Catholic missionary movement founded in the 19th century.

The entire relief is clear and well-preserved, with a grayish patina visible on the recessed parts, accentuating the contours and giving the medal an authentic charm. The medallion's perimeter is slightly beveled, adding a touch of extra finish. The suspension ring, also made of metal, appears to be original and functional.

The medal is presented on a carved wooden box (not included), highlighting its devotional and decorative dimension. No manufacturer's mark is visible on the shown side, which is common for this type of piece.

This type of medal is frequently sought after for its religious iconography, its function of spiritual protection, and its vintage aesthetic. It stands out for the finesse of its details and the sobriety of its style, typical of French productions of the 20th century.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. Some signs of wear and handling are visible, mainly in the form of micro-scratches and a slight patina on the reliefs, without altering the readability of the motif or the inscriptions.

Did you know? The Society of the Holy Childhood, founded in 1843 in Paris, aimed to support children in Catholic missions around the world. Medals bearing the inscription "Sancta Infantia" were often distributed during religious ceremonies or as devotional objects to encourage devotion and solidarity towards the youngest.

AFW Reassurance

Your purchase will be carefully packaged and shipped quickly. Professional seller, reliable service, and tracking provided.

Keywords: religious medal child, antique Catholic medal, metal piety pendant, Holy Childhood medal, SANCTA INFANTIA medal, antique church medal, child protection medal, vintage religion medal, religious medal France, Catholic medal vintage, silver-plated piety medallion, missionary medal 19th 20th century