A charming vintage French Catholic devotional mini desk shrine, made as a pilgrimage souvenir from Lourdes, France. This mid-century ex-voto piece features a colorful central illustration depicting the iconic Marian apparition scene: Our Lady of Lourdes standing inside the Grotto of Massabielle, with Saint Bernadette Soubirous kneeling in prayer before her. In the background, the distinctive spires of the Lourdes Sanctuary are beautifully detailed.
The central scene is protected under a thin, clear plastic protective cover and secured in a gold-toned metal bezel. The outer decorative standing frame features elegant, scalloped rococo styling with integral miniature legs. It is crafted from a cream-colored vintage plastic designed to mimic the iridescent look of mother-of-pearl.
It features the gold script "Lourdes" at the top of the frame. The inner illustration includes the French text: "Je suis l'Immaculée Conception" ("I am the Immaculate Conception"). The piece dates from the mid-20th Century (1950s–1960s).
It is in excellent vintage condition with age-appropriate character and a lovely authentic patina. The thin plastic face cover is intact. The decorative standing frame is sturdy, clean, and stands upright perfectly for display on a desk, shelf, or home altar. It measures 3.2" x 2".
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