Vintage Octagonal Bronze-look Religious Medal Virgin and Child

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This antique religious medal is octagonal in shape, with a suspension ring integrated into the mass. On the visible side, it features a relief depicting the seated Virgin and Child, holding the infant Jesus on her lap. To the left, a raised motif evokes a candle or a stylized boat, typical of Christian iconography. The whole is surrounded by a raised inscription, the readable part of which indicates: "DE BON ... PR...". The surface displays a pronounced patina, with brown and golden reflections, characteristic of an aged bronze appearance. The medal is presented on a case, which highlights the contrast of its dark hue with the light background.

The unusual octagonal perimeter gives this medal a distinctive style, different from the more classic shapes (round or oval) frequently found in Catholic religious medals. The relief of the central motif is marked, with details still clearly visible despite traces of wear from age, particularly on the prominent parts (face, arms). The partially legible inscription confirms the devotional theme, probably linked to a specific invocation to the Virgin.

The large and massive bail appears to be original and allows for easy wearing on a chain or cord. The medal has an irregular surface, with some visible oxidation marks on the top and edges, reinforcing its vintage authenticity. No hallmark is visible on the front.

The overall hue oscillates between dark brown and golden or coppery reflections, suggesting a bronze-like alloy, although it is not possible to confirm the exact material in the absence of an indication on the image or in the keywords. The details of the faces of the Virgin and Child remain identifiable, which attests to a good strike quality for a medal of this era.

The general style evokes a French production of the 20th century, probably from the first half, but without a visible mark or date, this period remains indicative. The surrounding decor (ornate case, baroque style) highlights the heritage dimension and the traditional use of this type of medal in Catholic devotion.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. The medal has a uniform patina, visible traces of wear and oxidation, with no major apparent impact on the front. The relief remains clearly perceptible. See photo for precise assessment of condition.

Did you know? Octagonal religious medals are less common than classic round models. The choice of the Virgin and Child as the central motif is emblematic of Marian devotion in France, particularly widespread in the 19th and 20th centuries, when many sanctuaries issued their own pious medals.

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Keywords: pious medal, Virgin Mary pendant, antique medal, bronze medal, octagonal medal, Catholic medal, religious medal, religious medallion, devotional medal, Virgin and Child medal, vintage medal, antique religious jewelry