Portrait of Mme. Raphael (1890)

Art Historical Context

Behold the exquisite *Portrait of Mme. Raphael (1890), aed bronze medal crafted by renowned French artist Jules-Clément Chaplain Measuring just 4 7/8 inches in diameter, this intimate profile captures the elegance of its sitter with remarkable finesse, showcasing Chaplain's mastery of the form during the Belle Époque. Presented in profile—a classical motif evoking ancient Roman coins—this piece exemplifies the revival of medal art in 19th-century France, where small-scale sculptures blended portraiture with decorative luxury. Chaplain, a leading exponent of French medal-making, employed lost-wax casting to achieve the medal's luminous silvered surface and intricate detailing, from the subtle play of light on Mme. Raphael's features to the textured hair and drapery. Acquired as a gift from collector Samuel P. Avery in 1893 and now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's European Sculpture and Decorative Arts department, it highlights the era's fascination with personalized commemorative objects. These medals were cherished keepsakes, bridging fine art and everyday adornment, and reflect the cultural prominence of women in Parisian society. This delicate work invites visitors to appreciate the artistry of miniatures, where every curve tells a story of technical virtuosity and timeless beauty.

About the Artist

Jules-Clément Chaplain · 1839–1909

Jules-Clément Chaplain (1839–1909) was a French engraver and medallist who became the most celebrated practitioner of the art medal in late nineteenth-century France. Born in Mortagne-au-Perche in Normandy, he studied at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris under Jouffroy and Oudiné and won the Prix de Rome for engraving in 1863, which enabled him to study in Italy for several years. Chaplain's work...