Medal for the Fiftieth Anniversary of the École française d'Athènes [obverse]

1898

Louis-Oscar Roty

Associated Names
Louis-Oscar Roty

Artist, French, 1846 - 1911

The image depicts a relief on a medal. It shows a woman seated with a serene demeanor, draped in classical robes, holding a small child aloft. The woman sits on an elevated step or platform with a staff leaning against her body. In the background, there are faint outlines of ancient columns, rolling hills, and architectural structures. The relief is a metallic silver tone, typical of medallions. Above the figures, there is an inscription that reads "POUR LA SCIENCE POUR LA PATRIE," which translates to "For Science For the Fatherland" in English. The relief is crafted with attention to detail in the folds of the woman's garments and the child's features.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

Associated Artworks

The image shows a round medal with a relief of classical Greek structures, possibly representing the Acropolis in Athens. The foreground features an engraving of a leafy branch intertwined with a banner inscribed with dates. The medal has a silvery metallic color. The bottom bears the inscription "ECOLE FRANÇAISE D'ATHENES" along with names and years. The medal appears to be a commemorative piece, possibly related to the French School at Athens. The craftsmanship is evident in the detailed engravings, with a polished finish reflecting light.

École française d'Athènes [reverse]

Louis-Oscar Roty

1898


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Philip Conisbee [1946-2008]; his wife, Faya Causey, Washington, D.C.; gift 2015 to NGA.

Associated Names

Inscriptions

across the field above: POUR.LA.SCIENCE.POUR.LA.PATRIE (For science, for the fatherland); lower right on the rocks: O ROTY; edge marked at 6:00: [a hallmark]; ARGENT

Wikidata ID

Q63864240

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