Vintage Hérault General Council medal, map relief, old award

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This antique medal features a metallic visual finish with a prominent relief. The visible side presents a graphic composition clearly showing a stylized map of the Hérault department, as well as a geometric motif evoking both the sun and dynamic lines. The inscription "CONSEIL GENERAL HERAULT" is clearly engraved in the upper and lower left parts, with slightly raised capital letters.

The background decoration alternates textured areas and cross-hatched patterns, creating an elegant contrast with the smooth part representing the department's map. The border is regular, without additional ornamentation, highlighting the sharpness of the engraving work. The graphic style and presentation suggest an official medal awarded in an institutional or commemorative setting, likely from the 1970s to 1990s, a period during which this type of design was common in French regional distinctions.

The medal is photographed on an ecru fabric, positioned to highlight the depth of the relief and the quality of the engraving. No major defects, chips, or scratches are visible on the observable surface; the perimeter appears intact, and the patina is uniform. The details of the motif remain crisp, emphasizing meticulous craftsmanship typical of institutional recognition or award objects.

The typography and cartographic representation are typical of French administrative signage from the late 20th century, with a sober and functional aesthetic. The piece shows no visible manufacturer's mark on this side; any information on the reverse cannot be commented on due to the absence of a photo.

This type of medal is generally awarded during official ceremonies, to honor services rendered or to mark an event related to the department. Its relief presentation gives it a decorative presence, making it particularly suitable for display on a desk, bookshelf, or in a display case.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. The visible side is in very good overall condition, with no notable defects or alterations.

Did you know? The Conseil Général de l'Hérault, like all French general councils before the 2015 territorial reform, was responsible for the local administration of the department. Medals of this type were frequently produced by workshops specializing in institutional engraving and were used to mark awards, inaugurations, or departmental anniversaries.

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Keywords: Hérault medal, Conseil Général distinction, antique French medal, departmental medal, official award, vintage French medal, Hérault badge, Hérault relief map, old French medal, French award, administrative decoration, Hérault commemorative medal