The Silich Collection of Historical and Art Medals (Part I)

FRANCE, Les Baux de Provence, 1972, a bronze medal by A. Bizette-Lindet for the Club Français de la Médaille, radiated arms of the lords of Les Baux, rev. view of Les Baux, star of Nativity above, edge impressed cuivre 1972 no. 4/100 and cornucopia, 72mm, 242.11g (CGMP p.250). Extremely fine, reverse with green patina £40-£50

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, The Silich Collection of Historical and Art Medals.

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bt Simmons, August 2003

Edition of 100. Les Baux de Provence (dép. Bouches du Rhône), a commune from which the name bauxite (aluminium ore) derives. In the Middle Ages, the area became the stronghold of a feudal domain covering 79 towns and villages. The fortress was built from the eleventh to the thirteenth century over seven hectares. The princes of Baux controlled Provence and gained a formidable reputation. They were said to be descended from Balthazar, and their coat of arms was a silver star with sixteen branches as a reminder that, according to the Gospel, it guided the three wise men to Bethlehem.