Médaille France Bronze Cardinal de Richelieu 1939

This bronze medal depicts the battleship Richelieu, a French warship of the Second World War, and bears on its reverse the effigy of Cardinal Richelieu, an iconic figure in French political history of the 17th century, chief minister to King Louis XIII and founder of the French Royal Navy. The link between the ship and the historical figure is thus highlighted by this commemorative piece.

This medal is the work of engraver Georges Guiraud, a recognised artist in the field of 20th-century French medals, whose work is distinguished by great precision in the rendering of portraits and naval representations. His academic and rigorous style is evident in the treatment of details, whether it be the imposing architecture of the battleship or the characteristic features of Cardinal Richelieu.

The battleship Richelieu was a vessel of the French Navy, belonging to the class of the same name, laid down in the 1930s and having played a notable role during the Second World War. Its depiction on this medal reflects the symbolic importance of this ship in the maritime history of France.

Cardinal Richelieu, Armand Jean du Plessis de Richelieu (1585?1642), is considered one of the architects of French naval power. It was under his impetus that the French Navy was truly structured and strengthened, which fully justifies the choice of his name to christen one of the most powerful French warships of the 20th century.

The medal is made of bronze, a material traditionally used in the production of commemorative and artistic medals, offering a beautiful patina and excellent durability over time.