Vintage french maltese cross that is an Infant of Prague medal.
The front of the medal has the image of The Holy Infant Jesus in the center surrounded by the invocation “Saint Enfant Jesus, Benissez Nous” which translates from French to “Holy Child Jesus, Bless Us”. The Ends of the cross are marked with “ET VERBUM CARO FACTUM EST” which translates from Latin to “AND THE WORD WAS MADE FLESH”. The reverse side of the medal has “IHS” in the center and the ends of the cross are marked with “Vive Rex Sum Ego Jesus ART Ave Maria” which translates from Latin to “Long live the King, I am Jesus, Hail Mary”.
The letters “A.R.T.” means “ADVENIAT REGNUUM TUUM”; May Your Kingdom come.
This unique piece was purchased from a French estate. This is a vintage lightweight aluminum medal that shows definite signs of age and wear (please see all photos and use the zoom feature if necessary). There is a brass jump ring attached to the bail.
Measurements:
1-1/4″ long, including bail
1-1/8″ wide