Rare and beautiful double sided 19th century Joan of Arc 18k gold medal
“Bravery is not the lack of fear but the ability to move forward in spite of fear”.
Joan of Arc (French name for Jeanne d’Arc) is considered a heroine of France for her role during the Lancastrian phase of the Hundred Years' War, and was canonized as a saint.
In 1430, she was captured by a group of French nobles allied with the English. She was later handed over to the English. After declared her guilty, she was burned at the stake, dying at about nineteen years of age. In 1456, an inquisitorial court authorized by Pope Callixtus III examined the trial, debunked the charges against her, pronounced her innocent, and declared her a martyr. In the 16th century she became a symbol of the Catholic League, and in 1803 she was declared a national symbol of France by the decision of Napoleon Bonaparte. She was beatified in 1909 and canonized in 1920. Joan of Arc is one of the nine secondary patron saints of France.
Joan of Arc has remained a popular figure in literature, painting, sculpture, and other cultural works since the time of her death, and many famous writers, playwrights, filmmakers, artists, and composers have created, and continue to create, cultural depictions of her. This beautiful 18K solid gold large medal from the late 19th century is a great example of it!
The medal is wonderfully double sided with a great attention to details: on one side, you have the Joan of Arc holding a sword, looking firmly in front of her; on the other side, it is engraved with the Fleur de lys, the crown and the sword, together with a text written in old French: “Elle fut par la grande pitié qui est loi au royaume de France”.
This stunning medal is absolutely a collector piece which reminds us of the power of being brave.
The chain on the photo is not included in the listing.
Measurements and Condition
In very good antique condition align with its age;
Hallmarked with French Eagle’s head for 18K gold on the bail.
Length including the bail: 34mm
Length excluding the bail: 26mm
Width: 26mm
Weight: 7.45g
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