| Bill's Belgian Medals Table Medals |
During my many visits to Brussels, I have seen many different table medals and was aware that they command great interest from collectors - I even purchased a few where they have had particular appeal. I was recently in contact with a collector/dealer in table medals, and his research on individual medals is why I decided to run feature table medals in my bulletin. If you have any World War 1 table medals, especially if they feature the Yser campaign, then please contact me - I would be very interested in them. Bill Simpson |
Belgian Art Deco Sport Aviation Medal by CONTEAUX. This stunning Art Deco Medal was created by Georges CONTEAUX with a quite exceptional aerial motif. The Medal was then used to commemorate the 1955 Tour Aerien de Belgique et Challenge F. Bouillon and specifically the Epreuve Nationale d Aviation Sportive (National Test of Sport Aviation). Dimensions: Surface: 50 mm in diameter; Thickness: 2.5 mm; Weight: 56 grams; Composition: Bronze: Aviation Sportive is a very popular sport throughout Europe and numerous challenges are held throughout each year, with several of the more popular attracting tens of thousands of spectators. The sport first gained popularity following WW1, especially in France and Germany; the two early leaders in aviation and aeronautics. But the field of competitors was still quite limited, as the number of experienced fliers and available aeroplanes were scarce. Following WW2, the sport gained in appeal as air transport became more affordable and available, skilled pilots were greater in number, aviation safety was much improved, and the novelty of flight had been replaced by a greater passion for flight. Hundreds of flying clubs were formed and official bodies organised to regulate competitions and set standards. To enter as a competitor in any of the challenges, a prospect had to first qualify by placing in one of the Epreuve Nationale (National Tests), typically consisting of a speed test (traversing a set circuit in the shortest time) and/or a distance test (traversing the longest distance in a defined area within a prescribed time). This Medal represents one of these National Tests conducted at a Belgian Aerial Challenge (I do not have information on the specific challenge). DESCRIPTION: Artist / Engraver - Georges CONTEAUX. French sculptor and engraver born in the late 1800s. Adapted well to the Art Deco style, creating a number of medals (many with a sports theme) and jewellery medallions/pendants (mostly with a religious theme). He was recognised by his peers in 1921 when he received an Honourable Mention award at the Salon des Artistes Français in Paris. Front (Obverse) Dominated by a powerful, beautifully shaped woman in flight. The woman has very sportive physical features, with a strong upper body (and small breasts), arched back, thin waist, and long, defined legs. She is wearing a thin, full length garment that is clinging to her skin as the wind beats against her body. Her facial features are almost masculine, accented by the serious and determined expression on her face. Both her arms are extended perpendicular to her body, as her hands grip a pair of wings. These thick wings are shaped like a bird's wings. The lines and curves are very geometric, as was the practice with Art Deco medallists. In the background are a number of puffy clouds. Along the bottom edge is the engraver's name CONTEAUX. Back (Reverse) - designed in an award format. The outer edge has a raised border. Next in is a wreath, with oak leaves at left (representing strength), and olive leaves at right (representing peace). In the centre is a raised circle. Within this circle is text: following the top curve TOUR AERIEN DE BELGIQUE. Within the curve of the above text it states, as a continuation, on three lines ET + CHALLENGE + F. BOUILLON. Along the bottom half, written horizontally on three lines it states EPREUVE NATIONALE+ D'AVIATION SPORTIVE + 1955. Rim (Edge) - no markings (as is often the case with Belgian Medals). In summary, a fabulous medal with a great matching history - very collectible |
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| Last Updated 17 November 2007 |
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