Overview
A double-sided devotional pendant featuring a high-relief Sacred Heart of Jesus on the obverse and a stylized Madonna and Child on the reverse. Struck in solid sterling silver, it exhibits a beautiful natural patina that highlights the fine sculptural details.
Story
Devotional medals like this became deeply personal talismans for families during the mid-20th century. This specific design bridges the gap between traditional Catholic iconography and the cleaner, more fluid lines of Mid-Century Modern art.
Maker / Origin
While the specific workshop is unidentified, the 'STERLING' mark is consistent with major American liturgical jewelers like Creed or Hayward. These companies specialized in 'die-struck' medals, using immense pressure to capture every fine line of the artist's original clay model.
Condition & Value
The medal shows a lovely aged patina with some surface oxidation on the reverse. The bale (hanging loop) appears slightly worn but functional. This original tarnish is preferred by collectors and should not be polished away. Condition is good and consistent with age.