Get a print of Ford Motor Company Medal (obverse) - Modern

Collectible Description

A Golden Tribute to Industrial Vision

In the realm of numismatic art, few pieces capture the intersection of industrial triumph and classical elegance as profoundly as the Ford Motor Company Medal. Created in 1928 by the master sculptor Anthony de Francisci, this obverse design serves as more than a mere commemorative token; it is a sculpted testament to an era of unprecedented mechanical progress. The medal features a striking, high-relief portrait of Henry Ford, rendered with a dignity that transcends his identity as a businessman, elevating him instead to the status of a monumental figure in human history. As light dances across the gilded surface, the fine details of the facial features emerge, offering a sense of permanence and strength that mirrors the very foundations of the automotive industry.

The artistry behind this piece is deeply rooted in the classical traditions that de Francisci mastered during his formative years at Cooper Union. Having studied under legendary figures such as James Earle Fraser and Adolph A. Weinman, the artist brought a sophisticated sculptural language to this medium. The technique employed here utilizes a subtle interplay of light and shadow, where the smooth, polished planes of the cheekbones contrast against the textured depth of the lettering. This meticulous approach ensures that every time the piece is viewed, new nuances are revealed, making it an exquisite subject for high-quality reproductions that aim to capture the tactile soul of the original metalwork.

Symbolism and the Spirit of an Era

Beyond its physical beauty, the medal carries a profound symbolic weight. The year 1928 was a period of immense transformation, and through this work, de Francisci captures the spirit of American ingenuity. The portrait of Ford is not merely a likeness; it is a symbol of the relentless drive toward modernization and the democratization of mobility. The choice of gold—or a gold-toned finish in reproductions—serves to sanctify the subject, suggesting that the achievements of the Ford Motor Company were part of a golden age of manufacturing. For collectors and enthusiasts of historical decor, this piece represents a bridge between the rugged reality of the assembly line and the refined grace of fine art.

For the discerning interior designer or art collector, integrating a reproduction of such a significant piece into a curated space offers an opportunity to introduce themes of heritage, stability, and classicism. Whether placed within a study lined with leather-bound books or featured as a focal point in a modern gallery setting, the medal evokes a sense of timelessness. It invites conversation about the legacy of innovation and the enduring power of sculptural portraiture, making it an evocative addition to any collection that celebrates the profound impact of human vision on the modern world.

Related Artworks

Artist Biography

Early Life and Training

Born: Palermo, Italy (July 13, 1887)
Died: August 20, 1964

Anthony de Francisci was an Italian-American sculptor best known for his impactful designs on United States coins and medals. He immigrated to the United States in 1905, becoming a naturalized citizen in 1913. His early years were marked by assisting his father, a marble cutter, providing him with foundational skills. He studied sculpture at Cooper Union in New York City, where he received instruction from prominent coin designers such as James Earle Fraser, Hermon MacNeil, and Adolph A. Weinman. This mentorship proved crucial to his later success in numismatic design. His work reflects a classical style influenced by the sculptors he studied under.

The Peace Dollar and Numismatic Recognition

The Competition: In 1921, de Francisci won a competition held by the Commission of Fine Arts to design a new silver dollar.
Design Inspiration: The portrait on the Peace Dollar is based on his wife, Mary Teresa Cafarelli, though he described it as a "composite" face representing “something of America.” He aimed to convey the nation's intellectual vigor and vitality in the design.
Immediate Impact: The success of the Peace Dollar significantly elevated de Francisci’s reputation.
Other Numismatic Works: He also designed the 1920 Maine Centennial commemorative half dollar.

The Peace Dollar remains his most celebrated achievement, a testament to his ability to blend artistic skill with numismatic principles. The design's immediate impact propelled him to new heights in his career.

Beyond Coins: Sculpture and Medallic Art

World War II Service Button: De Francisci designed the World War II Honorable Service Lapel Button, commonly known as the "ruptured duck."
Sesquicentennial Flagpole Reliefs: He created bronze high reliefs for the drum base of the Sesquicentennial flagpole in Union Square, New York City.
Abraham Lincoln Admiration: De Francisci held a deep admiration for Abraham Lincoln, reflected in several personal works.
1964/1965 New York World's Fair Medal: He designed the inaugural medal for this significant event.

De Francisci’s artistic talents extended beyond coin design, encompassing various sculptural and medallic projects that showcased his versatility and skill.

Legacy and Historical Significance

Anthony de Francisci’s contributions to American art, particularly his design of the Peace Dollar, have secured his place in history. His ability to blend artistic skill with numismatic principles resulted in a coin that is both aesthetically pleasing and historically significant. De Francisci's work demonstrates the power of sculpture to capture national identity and commemorate important events. He remains an influential figure in American art and numismatics, remembered for his impactful designs and lasting legacy.

Anthony de Francisci

1887 - 1964 , Italy

Quick Facts

Artistic Movement Or Style: Classical style
Artists Who Influenced This Artist:
- James Earle Fraser
- Hermon MacNeil
- Adolph A. Weinman
Date Of Birth: July 13, 1887
Date Of Death: August 20, 1964
Full Name: Anthony de Francisci
Nationality: Italian-American
Notable Artworks:
- Peace Dollar
- Maine Centennial half dollar
- World War II Service Button
Place Of Birth: Palermo, Italy

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