Belgium, France. Ex. Rare. Historical Medal 1972 Bruges – Thérèse Dufresne - Club Français de la Médaille

Belgium / France Large Medal 1972 Bruges – Thérèse Dufresne - Club Français de la Médaille

Obverse: Row of gabled houses with a dense play of stepped façades and soaring church spires; signed “DUFRESNE.”

Reverse: “BRUGES.” A stylized composition of bridges resembling undulating waves above the canals of the city, with swans gliding beneath.

This large bronze piece was created in 1972 by Thérèse Dufresne (1937–2010), a French sculptor and medallist noted for her distinctive modern style. Issued by the Club Français de la Médaille as part of its 24/25th selection, it represents Bruges, also known as the “Venice of the North.” The obverse shows the city’s characteristic stepped-gable houses and Gothic spires, while the reverse highlights its famous bridges and waterways. Only 150 examples were produced, each individually numbered on the edge; this specimen is number 15/150. Struck in Paris in 1972, it is a rare and splendid example of modern French medallic art, with Dufresne’s recognizable sculptural language that emphasizes rhythm and architectural forms.