French Notre Dame des Enfants Religious Medal Necklace
Jewelry (Religious Pendant/Medal) · Attributed to Ludovic Penin (marked 'LM' or similar monogram), a prominent 19th-century French medalist from Lyon famous for ecclesiastical works.
Pattern: Notre Dame des Enfants (Our Lady of the Children), a specific Catholic devotional iconography associated with Châteauneuf-sur-Cher.
Type
Jewelry (Religious Pendant/Medal)
Maker
Attributed to Ludovic Penin (marked 'LM' or similar monogram), a prominent 19th-century French medalist from Lyon famous for ecclesiastical works.
Material
French 800 or 925 Silver (likely 800 Silver based on common period standards for medals), with a base metal or matching silver chain.
Dimensions
Medal diameter approximately 18-22mm; estimated weight 3-5 grams for the pendant alone.
Description
A fine French devotional medal celebrating Our Lady of the Children. The obverse features the Blessed Mother in stylized robes and crown, extending her hands over several children in a protective gesture. The text 'NOTRE DAME DES ENFANTS P.P.N.' (Priez Pour Nous - Pray For Us) encircles the scene.
Key Features
High-relief casting, specific 'LM' maker's mark, and the unique subject matter of children's protection, which is less common than standard Marian depictions.
Material & Composition
French 800 or 925 Silver (likely 800 Silver based on common period standards for medals), with a base metal or matching silver chain.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized matte finish with high-relief die-stamping. Features a raised central figure of the Virgin Mary with a crown, surrounded by children, with a horizontally brushed background and embossed French text.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Small 'crab' or 'boar's head' French hallmarks likely on the jump ring or edge (not visible in image); includes maker's initials 'LM' on the lower left of the medal face.
Construction Details
Die-struck from a metal plate to achieve sharp relief details; integrated top loop with a secondary jump ring for the chain.
Functional Features
Sanctified devotional object intended for protection; features a secure suspension loop for attachment to a necklace or rosary.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; attached via a standard circular jump ring to a machine-linked cable chain.
Craftsmanship Details
Excellent die-striking quality; the detail in the children's faces and the folds of the Mary's gown indicates a high-quality master mold.
Authentication Indicators
Distinctive French typography, stylistic execution consistent with French medalists like Penin, and period-correct oxidation patterns.
Origin & Manufacturing
France, likely Lyon or Paris; Lyon was the center of religious medal production in the 19th century.
Era & Period
Late 19th Century to Early 20th Century (Belle Époque/Victorian transition); style is influenced by Neo-Gothic and Academic realism.
Age Estimate
Circa 1890-1920; based on the specific lettering style and the rise in popularity of this specific French pilgrimage site.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 19th-century French Catholic revival; such medals were often given at First Communions or as protective talismans for infants.
Condition Notes
Very Good/Excellent; minimal surface wear to high points, natural dark patina in recessed areas which enhances the relief detail, no significant dents or scratches.
Value Estimate
$45 - $125 USD (depending on silver purity confirmation and collector interest in the specific medalist).
Care & Maintenance
Gently clean with a soft toothbrush and mild soap; avoid harsh silver dips which would strip away the beautiful aesthetic oxidation (patina).
Similar Pieces
Miraculous Medals (Rue du Bac style), Scapular Medals, or works by medalist Fernand Py (though his style is more Art Deco).
Interesting Facts
The devotion to Notre Dame des Enfants began in 1866 in Châteauneuf-sur-Cher after a priest dedicated the construction of a church specifically to protect children.