In Praise of Mariani Coca-Wine 1895

This 1895 silver plaquette, titled "In Praise of Mariani Coca-Wine", is a striking example of Art Nouveau advertising by renowned French medalist Louis-Oscar Roty. The left side depicts a woman, possibly a nymph, offering a drink to a child, alluding to the tonic's purported health benefits. The right side showcases a bottle of Mariani Coca-Wine, a popular drink at the time, surrounded by coca leaves and a message celebrating the "health of the strong and life of the weak". The plaquette's intricate details and expressive style are characteristic of Art Nouveau, which flourished at the turn of the 20th century. The plaquette's advertising purpose is evident, but it also speaks to the artistic and cultural values of its time.