Antique French Bronze Religious Medal - Our Lady of Sorrows - Enfants de Marie Institut Normal - Signed H. Marey

A devotional bronze medal carrying quiet reverence and history.

This antique French bronze religious medal depicts Our Lady of Sorrows, veiled and surrounded by the traditional seven swords, beneath the Latin inscription Ecce Mater Tua. The reverse bears the name of the Congrégation des Enfants de Marie, Institut Normal, framed by a finely engraved lily and rose. Signed H. Marey, it reflects the skill of French religious medallists of the period. Its ball-form bail and warm bronze patina give it authentic, timeless charm.

Type: Religious pendant medal Period: Late 19th century Material: Bronze Dimensions: 32 mm diameter x 36 mm height with bail (1.26 x 1.42 inches) Origin: France Condition: Very good condition, original patina preserved

The relief is crisp and well-defined, giving a beautifully modeled face and drapery to the Virgin. The seven swords, fanned on either side of the bust, are finely chased, as is the lettering around the border. On the reverse, the shield framed by the lily and rose, together with the interlaced monogram above, reflects careful attention to the heraldic composition.

The H. Marey signature, discreetly placed near the Virgin's left arm, identifies a medallist active in the production of French religious medals. The reverse inscription, Congrégation des Enfants de Marie – Institut Normal, situates this medal within a Marian congregation linked to an educational institution, a common practice at the time to mark membership in a pious association.

This medal can be worn as a pendant on a fine chain, kept in a jewelry box, or added to a collection of antique religious medals. It also sits beautifully displayed on a stand or velvet cushion.

A piece that will appeal to collectors of French religious medals, lovers of sacred art and Marian devotional objects, and anyone seeking a gift rich in meaning.

Authentic, finely chased, and steeped in history, this bronze medal combines quality craftsmanship with symbolic depth. Its good state of preservation allows every relief detail to be fully appreciated.

This antique French bronze religious medal, dedicated to Our Lady of Sorrows and signed H. Marey, brings together authenticity, fine craftsmanship, and French Marian history. Ideal for collectors and lovers of antique religious jewelry alike, it embodies the quiet elegance of late 19th-century devotional medals.

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