France 19th C. Bronze Shell Medal – Apotheosis & St. Helena Napoleon – 40mm France – 19th Century Bronze Shell Medal “Apotheosis of Napoleon / Île Ste. Hélène” – 40 mm Beautiful Romantic-era French medal dedicated to the heroic myth and final exile of Napoleon Bonaparte. ⸻ Description Offered here is a highly attractive 19th-century bronze shell medal (two-piece construction) celebrating the two most iconic images of Napoleonic memory: 1. APOTHEOSE DE NAPOLEON – the emperor elevated to near-divine status 2. ILE STE. HÉLÈNE – Napoleon in exile, proud yet solitary on the rocky shores of St. Helena Produced in France between c.1830–1870, these medals were part of the renewed fascination with the Napoleonic legend during the July Monarchy and especially under the Second Empire. This example is exceptionally well preserved, with rich original patina and strong relief. ⸻ Obverse – “APOTHEOSE DE NAPOLEON” Napoleon stands heroically on a celestial globe, arms crossed, surrounded by clouds and laurel branches. A pure Romantic image symbolizing his elevation from fallen emperor to immortal national figure. ⸻ Reverse – “ILE STE. HÉLÈNE” A deeply evocative scene: Napoleon in greatcoat, alone on the cliffs of St. Helena. Behind him, a ship sails on the rough sea—an allegory of exile, melancholy and destiny. A powerful representation of the final chapter of the Napoleonic epic. ⸻ Technical Details • Material: Bronze • Type: Shell medal (two concave halves joined at the rim) • Diameter: 40 mm • Edge: Typical small seam opening – correct for authentic shell construction • Origin: France, mid-19th century • Patina: Warm original brown-bronze tone with attractive highlights • Condition: Very fine details, excellent surfaces, clean rims, no repairs ⸻ Historical Significance Shell medals with this dual design were extremely popular in the 19th century. They circulated as patriotic souvenirs, commemorative objects and affordable tributes to the Emperor. Today, they are collected for their: • Romantic artistic style • Iconic Napoleon imagery • Strong historical symbolism • Scarcity in well-preserved condition This example captures perfectly the 19th-century devotion to the “Napoleonic Myth” – a blend of heroism, tragedy and national identity.