Lyon France Heraldic Lion Medallion Pendant / Keychain
Jewelry / Medallic Art (Pendant or Fob) · Likely a French souvenirs or heraldic manufacturer (unconfirmed workshop), potentially FIA (Fonderie d'Art et de Bronze) based on the small mark at the 6 o'clock position.
Pattern: Lyon City Heraldry 'Avant, Avant, Lyon le Melhor'
Type
Jewelry / Medallic Art (Pendant or Fob)
Maker
Likely a French souvenirs or heraldic manufacturer (unconfirmed workshop), potentially FIA (Fonderie d'Art et de Bronze) based on the small mark at the 6 o'clock position.
Material
Likely Silver-Plated Bronze or Silver-Plated Base Metal (Pewter/Zinc Alloy). The surface shows signs of oxidation and matte finish consistent with high-quality plating over a cast base.
Dimensions
Approximately 40-45mm in diameter (standard medallion size); estimated weight 25-35 grams reflecting a heavy cast construction.
Description
A striking heraldic medallion featuring the Lion of Lyon, France. The obverse depicts the city's rampant lion symbol surrounded by the traditional Franco-Provençal battle cry 'AVANT AVANT LION LE MELHOR' (Forward, forward, Lyon the best). The field is strewn with stylized fleurs-de-lis, referencing the city's historical royal granting of the arms. It is a bold, masculine piece of jewelry or a heavy-duty fob with a distinct historical aesthetic.
Key Features
Rampant lion motif, Franco-Provençal dialect motto, heavy relief casting, and 'stippled' background field.
Material & Composition
Likely Silver-Plated Bronze or Silver-Plated Base Metal (Pewter/Zinc Alloy). The surface shows signs of oxidation and matte finish consistent with high-quality plating over a cast base.
Finish & Decoration
Antiqued/Oxidized finish with a matte ground. Features a high-relief (repoussé style) heraldic rampant lion surrounded by fleurs-de-lis and text in raised block lettering. The style is Medieval Revival/Gothic.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Small rectangular manufacturer's mark at the bottom center (6 o'clock position), possibly 'FIA' or a similar foundry mark. No visible '925' or 'Sterling' marks, suggesting it is a high-quality non-precious casting.
Construction Details
Die-cast or lost-wax cast construction with a textured 'stippled' background to provide contrast. The jump ring/bale is heavy gauge and appears to be pressure-fitted or soldered.
Functional Features
Includes a robust triangular/square bale and jump ring for attachment to a chain, cord, or key ring.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Pendant form). The bale is sturdy silver-toned metal showing light friction wear.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial casting. The edges are smooth and the lettering is perfectly aligned, indicating the use of a steel master die in production.
Authentication Indicators
The motto and lion are geographically specific to Lyon. The secondary mark at the bottom indicates a commercial foundry rather than a precious metal smith. The absence of a French 'Minerva' head or '925' stamp confirms this is likely silver-plate.
Origin & Manufacturing
Lyon, France. The piece is a classic representative of French town pride, likely produced by an 'entreprise du patrimoine vivant' or local artisan foundry.
Era & Period
Modern Souvenir / 20th Century Revival. While the design is based on the 13th-century motto of Lyon, the typeface and casting technique suggest a mid-to-late 20th-century production.
Age Estimate
Late 20th Century (c. 1970 - 2000). The crispness of the lettering and the specific matte oxidation are typical of modern medallion manufacturing.
Cultural Significance
Represents the fierce independence and history of Lyon, the third-largest city in France and its gastronomic capital. These medallions are often gifted as commemoratives or kept as symbols of regional identity.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The plating is largely intact with attractive darkening in the recesses (patina). There are minor surface scratches consistent with use as a keychain or heavy pendant. No structural cracks or significant metal loss.
Value Estimate
$20 - $50 USD. Values are driven more by the subject matter and regional interest than the metal content, as this appears to be a plated base metal version.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft damp cloth. Avoid harsh silver chemicals as they may remove the intentional 'antique' oxidation in the recesses. Store in a dry place to prevent 'green rot' (verdigris) if the base metal is brass/bronze.
Similar Pieces
Medals by Arthus-Bertrand or FIA Lyon. Similar pieces exist in pure bronze, sterling silver (marked with Minerva), and silver-plated varieties.
Interesting Facts
The motto 'Avant, Avant, Lyon le Melhor' dates back to a 1273 uprising of the citizens against the power of the Church. It remains one of the oldest recorded battle cries in France.