France, 1939. France. “Concours d’Équitation Militaires”, a bronze prize medal by Marey [un-named], head of the Republic, reverse cherubs decorating the arms of Orleans with wreaths, 59mm. Extremely fine

This medal was struck for the 35th Federal Competition held at Orleans on the 17th and 18th June, 1939. Marey’s slightly androngynous effigy of the French Republic after Coudray is unusual and effective: her head faces half left, the eyes, turned towards the viewer, are watchful and full of foreboding as if anticipating the coming war with Germany a few months later