Honderdjarige herdenking van de geboorte van Louis Pasteur 1922 1922

This bronze medal was made in 1922 by G Prud'homme to celebrate the centenary of Louis Pasteur's birth. The colour is that lovely, warm brown you get with bronze, and the surface has a smooth feel that invites you to touch it. Look at the profile of Pasteur. It's a striking image, caught in a moment of thought. The details are incredible, especially in the hair and beard. You can almost feel the weight of history and accomplishment in that gaze. Turn the medal over, and you see this amazing architectural monument with a dedication. This piece reminds me a little of Rodin's portrait busts. I'm left thinking about how each mark, each line, contributes to the overall feel and meaning of the piece. It's a conversation, a collaboration across time.