Jeanne d’Arc Medal

Copied Paul Manship, Jeanne d'Arc Medal, 1915, bronze, 2 34 in. (7.0 cm) diam., Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of the artist, 1965.16.76

Artwork Details

Title
Jeanne d’Arc Medal
Artist
Date
1915
Location
Not on view
Dimensions
2 34 in. (7.0 cm) diam.
Credit Line
Gift of the artist
Mediums
Mediums Description
bronze
Classifications
Keywords
  • State of being — death — burning at the stake
  • Object — weapon — sword
  • Object — other — wreath
  • Equestrian
  • Religion — angel
  • Religion — saint — St. Joan of Arc
  • Religion — martyr
Object Number
1965.16.76

Artwork Description

Paul Manship’s Jeanne d’Arc medal was created to benefit the Italian War Relief Committee. The reverse depicts Joan of Arc being burned in 1431 for having challenged the authority of the Church. The “Maid of Orleans” was convicted of heresy for claiming that God spoke directly to her, commanding Joan to save France from the English invaders. As Joan suffers at the stake, a hand reaches from the clouds to lift her soul into heaven.