Art Nouveau Virgin Mary/Madonna Sterling Silver Vermeil Medallion Medal
Jewelry (Pendant/Medallion) · Unidentified French or Continental European silversmith (initials visible as AM or VA)
Pattern: Art Nouveau Religious Iconography Medals
Type
Jewelry (Pendant/Medallion)
Maker
Unidentified French or Continental European silversmith (initials visible as AM or VA)
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) with heavy gold vermeil (gold electroplate over silver)
Dimensions
Approximately 32-35mm in diameter; estimated weight of 12-15 grams of troy silver
Description
An exceptionally fine gold-washed sterling silver medallion depicting the Madonna in profile. The piece features a distinctively soft Art Nouveau aesthetic, with the figure's flowing hair merging into the circular border, accented by a beaded rim. The heavy gold-over-silver (vermeil) finish gives the piece a rich, solid gold appearance while maintaining the value of the precious metal base.
Key Features
Art Nouveau facial treatment, heavy high-relief die-striking, beaded contrast border, and the maker's monogram in the lower field
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) with heavy gold vermeil (gold electroplate over silver)
Finish & Decoration
High relief repoussé and chasing, matte gold wash, beaded border, and stylized Madonna bust in the Art Nouveau manner
Hallmarks & Stamps
Indistinct maker's mark at lower right; likely stamped with Minerva head or eagle on the bale and a purity mark (925 or 1st titre) on the reverse side
Construction Details
Die-struck and hand-finished; the relief is pushed from the back with chasing on the front surface to sharpen details
Functional Features
Suspension loop (bale) for attachment to a chain or ribbon; integral rim for protection of the high-relief center
Handle & Grip Details
Simple rectangular bale attached to the top of the medal, showing minimal wear
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality die-work with evidence of hand-tooling in the crown and hair details; well-proportioned symmetry
Authentication Indicators
Deep relief typical of die-struck medals of the period, correct maker's mark placement, age-appropriate wear to the gold plating
Origin & Manufacturing
Europe, most likely France (long tradition of devotional medals) or Italy
Era & Period
Art Nouveau (approx. 1890-1915), characterized by flowing hair and soft, emotive facial expressions
Age Estimate
Early 20th Century, circa 1900-1910, based on stylistic facial features and the border technique
Cultural Significance
Represents the intersection of Catholic devotional arts and the decorative flourish of the Belle Époque era
Condition Notes
Overall Excellent; minimal wear to the vermeil (gold wash) on high points, light surface tarnish in recesses, suspension loop is secure and unworn
Value Estimate
$150 - $350 USD depending on the clarity of the reverse hallmarks and whether it is solid silver or gold-plated base metal
Care & Maintenance
Gentle cleaning with a soft cloth only; avoid silver polish or dips as they will strip the thin gold vermeil layer
Similar Pieces
Medals by Lucien Coudray or Frederic Vernon, though this piece lacks their specific signatures, it follows the same high-caliber design principles
Interesting Facts
During the Art Nouveau period, religious medals transitioned from stiff classical versions to highly artistic, emotive, and romanticized figures