France Plaque Charles Rolland - ND (1922) - Bronze par C.H. Samuel

This bronze plaque, minted in 1922, pays tribute to Charles Rolland. It is the work of Belgian sculptor, engraver and medalist Charles Samuel. Charles Samuel, born in Brussels in 1862 and died in 1939, studied engraving with Léopold Wiener, sculpture with Eugène Simonis, Joseph Jaquet and Charles van der Stappen, and medal making with Philippe Wolfers. He began his career in 1889.

The plaque is single-sided and bears the inscription "Hommage de Reconnaissance À Charles Rolland" (Tribute of Recognition to Charles Rolland). It depicts a bust of Charles Rolland, facing left, placed on a pedestal. The pedestal is surmounted by a rooster, the traditional symbol of France. On either side of the bust are allegorical figures: two draped women and a nude young man. The inscription "Président De L'Ecole Française 1907-1922" (President of the French School 1907-1922) indicates the period during which Charles Rolland served as president.

This plaque was made by C.R. Samuel for Fonson. It testifies to the recognition of Charles Rolland, an important figure in the École Française. The dimensions of the plaque are 90 mm x 60 mm.

The plaque's composition, with its bust on a pedestal adorned with allegorical figures, recalls classic commemorative monuments. The choice of bronze as a material gives the object a patina and durability that emphasize its commemorative character. The signature of Charles Samuel attests to the artistic quality of the work and its importance in the career of the Belgian medalist.