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Lot # J591

950 Silver Art Nouveau Plaque View Watchlist >

Frédéric Rasumny – Académie d’Hippone, Bône (Algeria), 1913, Boxed

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Winning Bid: $165.00
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High Bidder: Kflint

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Lot # J591
System ID # 24732783

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Description

950 Silver Art Nouveau Plaque
Frédéric Rasumny – Académie d’Hippone, Bône (Algeria), 1913, Boxed

A distinguished and finely executed Art Nouveau silver plaquette by Frédéric Charles François Rasumny (1869–1940), commissioned by the Académie d’Hippone of Bône (Algeria) to commemorate its Fiftieth Anniversary, 1863–1913. The obverse presents an allegorical female figure in flowing classical drapery, gracefully extending a laurel wreath amid lush foliage—a symbolic celebration of artistic excellence rendered in Rasumny’s characteristic sculptural style, merging neoclassical serenity with Art Nouveau vitality. The reverse bears an engraved inscription:
“Académie d’Hippone – Bône (Algérie) – Fêtes du Cinquantenaire 1863–1913 – Concours Artistique – Mr. A. Riche Lauréat.”

Struck in solid 950 silver, this award plaque displays full French silver hallmarks: ARGENT 950, M/M (for Parisian silversmiths Mouchon Frères), the artist’s incised signature F. RASUMNY, and official French silver assay marks, verifying its precious-metal purity and Paris manufacture. Weighing an impressive 77.54 grams, and measuring 2 3/8 × 1 25/32 × 3/32 inches, it is a rare example of Rasumny’s work in high-fineness silver, combining technical mastery and allegorical grace.

Rasumny—born in Sevastopol, trained in Paris under Chaplain and Millet, and naturalized French in 1905—was among the most accomplished medallists of his generation. His work is represented in the British Museum, Monnaie de Paris, and numerous institutional collections. This plaque, commissioned for an Algerian cultural academy named after the ancient city of Hippo Regius (home of St. Augustine), reflects both the artistic ambitions of French Algeria and the refined medallic tradition of the Belle Époque.

Housed in its original red velvet and silk-lined fitted case, this example survives as a complete ensemble—its aesthetic integrity enhanced by the patina of age and preservation of presentation.

Condition

Very good overall, showing gentle toning and light surface wear consistent with age. Relief remains crisp and finely detailed. Presentation case with moderate exterior wear and light fabric aging but structurally sound with functioning clasp.