Large Antique French Silver and Gold First Communion Medal, Ornate Oval Eucharistic Chalice Pendant

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A particularly beautiful antique French First Communion medal, finely made in silver with a contrasting gold Communion chalice and host.

The central Eucharistic design is exceptionally detailed. A gold chalice is topped by the consecrated host and surrounded by silver wheat, grapes, vine leaves and scrolling foliage, representing the bread and wine of Holy Communion.

On French religious medals of this period, applied gold details were commonly made from high-carat gold, often 18 or 22 carat.

The centre is framed by an elaborate pierced silver border composed of eight scrolling floral panels, each containing a quatrefoil motif. Tiny applied flowers are arranged between the panels, creating a richly decorative openwork surround.

The reverse is plain and unengraved, while the pierced border can be appreciated from both sides. The medal retains its fixed suspension loop and original loose hanging ring.

It is in very good antique condition, with light surface wear and natural patina consistent with age. Please study the photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description.

Height: 1½ inches (3.8 cm), including the fixed suspension loop but excluding the loose hanging ring
Width: 1⅛ inches (2.9 cm)
Weight: 7.36 g
Material: Silver with an applied gold Communion chalice and host, believed to be high-carat but untested
Origin: France
Date: Circa 1900–1920