Vintage bronze Catholic religious medal, SANCTA INFANTIA, old relief

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This antique Catholic religious medal features a classic oval shape with an integrated suspension loop at the top, designed to be worn as a pendant or attached to a rosary. On the obverse, the medal displays a finely crafted relief depicting a haloed female figure, likely the Virgin Mary, surrounded by several kneeling or standing children, in a scene imbued with piety and contemplation.

The decoration includes a stylized palm tree on the left and, on the right, an architectural element reminiscent of a pagoda or an exotic structure, suggesting an iconography related to Christian missions or missionary childhood. The upper inscription SANCTA INFANTIA (Holy Childhood) is clearly legible, while a second line of Latin inscription is partially visible at the bottom, emphasizing the spiritual and missionary dimension of the medal.

The medal's surface, bronze in color (as indicated in the keywords), exhibits a matte patina typical of antique objects, with some visible wear marks on the raised reliefs, attesting to its age and handling over time. The details of the modeling, particularly the drapery of the clothing, the foliage, and the attitudes of the figures, are well preserved and reflect careful striking or casting work.

The bail, also made of bronze according to the keywords, shows slight deformation from use but remains functional. The overall piece is enhanced by the contrast between the medal and the gold-decorated stand visible in the photo, accentuating the antique and religious character of the object. No reverse side is visible in this image; only the main obverse is described here.

This type of medal was frequently distributed in the 19th or early 20th century during Catholic missions or Holy Childhood works. The scene, inscription, and striking style are typical of devotional objects produced during this period, often intended for religious education or personal devotion.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. Shows signs of wear and slight deformation of the bail, uniform patina, clearly legible reliefs. See photo for more details.

Did you know? The Society of the Holy Childhood, founded in 1843, played a major role in the distribution of missionary medals intended to raise children's awareness of international solidarity and prayer for children worldwide. Holy Childhood medals were frequently offered during religious ceremonies or parish events, particularly in France and missionary countries.

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Keywords: Holy Childhood medal, antique religious medal, bronze Catholic pendant, missionary medal, child piety medal, vintage Christian medal, religious medal, Catholic pendant, 19th century bronze medal, devotional object, hanging medal, Virgin and Child medal, antique religious medal