Betrothal Medal, ​“Ceres’ Blessing So Is On You,” Struck for the Society of Medalists – 20th Issue

Copied John Gregory, Betrothal Medal, "Ceres' Blessing So Is On You," Struck for the Society of Medalists--20th Issue, 1939, gilded bronze, 1⁄4 x 2 7⁄8 in. (.6 x 7.4 cm.) diam., Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of the heirs of Albert Laessle: Mrs. Albertine de Bempt Laessle, Mr. Albert M. Laessle and Mr. Paul Laessle, 1972.167.42

Artwork Details

Title
Betrothal Medal, ​“Ceres’ Blessing So Is On You,” Struck for the Society of Medalists – 20th Issue
Artist
Commissioner
Society of Medallic Arts
Founder
Medallic Art Company
Date
1939
Location
Not on view
Dimensions
1⁄4 x 2 7⁄8 in. (.6 x 7.4 cm.) diam.
Credit Line
Gift of the heirs of Albert Laessle: Mrs. Albertine de Bempt Laessle, Mr. Albert M. Laessle and Mr. Paul Laessle
Mediums
Mediums Description
gilded bronze
Classifications
Keywords
  • Figure female — head
  • Mythology — classical — Ceres
  • Animal — insect — bee
  • Allegory — quality — wealth
  • Object — flower — rose
Object Number
1972.167.42
Linked Open Data
https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1972.167.42

Artwork Description

In John Gregory’s medal, the grain interwoven in Ceres’ hair refers to her protective role as the Roman goddess of agriculture. The inscription on the reverse side, “scarcity and want shall shun you,” appears with an image of bees approaching a rose. These symbols of passion and fertility invoke a future of healthy children for the betrothed couple.