In honor of the sculptor, Eugene Guillaume 1886

This bronze medal, "In honor of the sculptor, Eugene Guillaume," was created in 1886 by Jules-Clément Chaplain. It offers a glimpse into the artistic and social values of 19th-century France. The medal presents two distinct images: On one side, a classical female figure, likely representing sculpture or the arts, is depicted in a traditional pose of contemplation. On the other side, a profile of Eugene Guillaume himself, a renowned sculptor, is displayed with the inscription of his name and titles. The artistic choices reflect the period’s emphasis on academic classicism and the celebration of male genius. However, it also subtly underscores the complex role of women, often relegated to allegorical figures rather than celebrated artists in their own right. This medal serves as a reminder of the gendered dynamics within the art world of the time. It invites us to consider the narratives that were promoted and those that were marginalized.