Hygeia was the Greek goddess of health, cleanliness and sanitation. She was the daughter of Asclepius, god of medicine. While her father was associated with healing, her role was in the prevention of sickness and continuation of good health. The modern word “hygiene” has its roots in her name. She was often represented as a woman holding a large serpent in her arms.
- Plaquette
Bronze. Belgium 1913. Signed. Struck for Société Hollandaise-Belge des Amis de la Médaille d'Art.
- Size
70 x 63 mm
- Artist
Jean Lecroart (1883-1967), Belgian medallist Jean Lecroart (1883-1967), Belgian sculptor and medallist from Laeken; he apprenticed in trade of ornamental sculpture in Brussels, but got interested in medallic art; winner of many awards, exhibited all over Europe. (Forrer 7, 542)
- Obverse
Female head on pedestal with long hair and fruit entwined, branches of grapes forging decorative half circle above her, below the bust, ΥΓΙΕΙΑ [Hygeia] / 1913, on left of the pedestal SOCIETE / HOLLANDO-BELGE, on right DES AMIS / DE LA MEDAILLE.
- Reverse
At left, a naked woman with stretched hands to right, holding a plate of fruit, one serpent around her right hand, the other entwined with her long hair; her face is turned away but her body is facing a naked boy, who sits with his arm and head rested on the head of Asklepios on a pedestal; behind them at right, a temple on a hill; between them, incused ΑΣΚΛΗΠІΟΣ (Asklepios); parallel to left edge, J. LECROART incused.
- Edge
PAUL FISCH Paul Fisch (1865-unknown), Belgian engraver and medallist from Brussels. (Forrer 2, 97; 7, 306)
- Ref
Nilsson 680
