Medal of the Virgin with Saint Francis
Medal: Our Lady of Guadalupe / Saint Francis of Assisi
This bronze medal, dating from the late 16th century, is one of the earliest known representations of the Virgin of Guadalupe, distinguished by the style of her crown, scepter, and decorated mantle. The obverse features the Virgin holding the Christ Child on her left, standing on a cherub and supported by two angels. She wears an imperial crown and holds a scepter in her right hand, while her mantle is richly adorned. At the base of the design, two watermarks are visible. Surrounding the image, the legend reads: S[ANTA] ✱ MA[RIA] • DE ✱ • • GVADALVP[E].
The reverse of the medal depicts the stigmatization of Saint Francis of Assisi, framed inside the border of the Franciscan cord with three knots. Saint Francis is shown in his Franciscan habit, kneeling to the left with outstretched arms, gazing at the seraphim above him, which bears the figure of a crucified Christ on its head. Beside him is the seated figure of Brother León, holding an open book, attentively observing the mystical event. The careful detail on both figures and the cord’s border demonstrates the skill and devotional focus of the medal’s maker.
Measuring 19 x 13 mm (26 x 17 mm including handle and nipples) and weighing 1.49 grams, this small object was likely issued under Franciscan supervision. In 1908, the Franciscan Order assumed responsibility for the Monastery, a tradition that continues today, and it was from this period onward that medals featuring the Virgin with Saint Francis began to appear on the reverse. This particular medal preserves the iconographic richness of both sides, offering a devotional object that connects the faithful with both the Marian and Franciscan spiritual traditions.
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