{"product_id":"medaille-religieuse-vintage-catholique-france-metal-apparition-lourdes","title":"Vintage Catholic religious medal France metal, apparition Lourdes","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAFW - Antique France Worldwide\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDescription\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis antique religious medal has an octagonal shape and features a patinated metallic finish, typical of 20th-century French productions. The visible side shows a bas-relief depicting an emblematic Catholic scene: a kneeling female figure (probably Bernadette Soubirous) facing a Marian apparition, most likely the Virgin Mary, in a grotto or rocky setting. This motif directly evokes the iconography of the Lourdes apparitions, which is very common in French religious medals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe medal has a large bail, allowing it to be easily worn on a chain or cord. The mention \"FRANCE\" is clearly engraved on the left side of the motif, attesting to its French origin. The surface shows an irregular patina, with golden and bronze reflections, giving the whole an authentic vintage charm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe relief work, though modest, highlights the Virgin's drapery, the gesture of prayer, and the meeting scene. The visible wear on the edges, as well as the dark and light nuances, attest to the medal's age and reinforce its antique character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe general appearance shows slight traces of oxidation, particularly on the prominent parts, typical of metal religious medals that have endured several decades. No chips or cracks are visible on the presented side. The reverse side and any additional inscriptions are not visible in the photograph.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis type of medal was traditionally offered during pilgrimages or communions and remains a strong symbol for believers. Its classic representation makes it a sought-after piece for both daily wear and personal devotion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCondition\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsed item showing a marked patina, signs of wear, and superficial oxidation. Sold as is, as shown in the photos.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDid you know?\u003c\/b\u003e The representation of the Virgin appearing to Bernadette Soubirous is an emblematic motif of Lourdes medals, circulated from the end of the 19th century after the official recognition of the apparitions by the Catholic Church in 1862. Medals minted in France were often sold on site in Lourdes or distributed in French parishes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAFW Reassurance\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFast shipping and careful packaging by a professional seller specializing in antique and religious items.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eKeywords: Lourdes medal, Virgin apparition medal, antique religious pendant, Catholic medal France, vintage Marian medal, religious medal France, metal devotion medal, Mary Lourdes pendant, antique pious medal, bronze look medal, Lourdes souvenir, Catholic medal vintage\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"AFW","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54316827050311,"sku":"96761fc4-9c4f-4ab5-94ec-9cb7501d9aee","price":3.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0989\/5152\/8775\/files\/s-l1600_050d0b0d-747d-4109-971a-9be8ce93e49a.jpg?v=1783611468","url":"https:\/\/shop.antiquefranceworldwide.com\/en\/products\/medaille-religieuse-vintage-catholique-france-metal-apparition-lourdes","provider":"AFW","version":"1.0","type":"link"}