Each year, a new jetton was designed for the provost of the merchants of Paris. The provost acted as a mayor and was elected every two years. The first provost was chosen in the thirteenth century, whereas the last one governed until 1789 when the French revolution was in full tilt.
These jettons were meant to be given as gifts in recognition of service. Among those receiving jettons were the mayor, the sheriffs, the king's attorney, and other officials. Many of the jettons were made of brass, a few of silver (the standard mintage for the latter appears to be about 900 pieces). All of them were produced by the Paris Mint and were distributed in the Fall.
The Arms of Paris featured the "Ship of State" -- hence, there are many ships in the series. Most of the sailing ships are placed within a shield, but a few are featured in a larger size, sans shield. I particularly like the latter vessels.
In 1632, a large ship (of state) was depicted on these municipal jettons. Christopher Sanguine was the provost of Paris at the time. He served from 1628 to 1632. The motto underscores the balance of power among the merchant corps from which the provost was elected.
The fully-rigged ship is on a port tact with billowing sails. The sea is churning. The hull is depicted with an artistic flourish: rotund and adorned with curly gunwales. The hull shows three wide planks with bold pegs. The sails are decorated with fleurs-de-lis.
Such a lovely ship. This might be the work of chief engraver Jean d' Armand Orphelin. I did not find a signature mark, however.
The particular piece was carefully handled nearly four centuries. Wear is slight on the lower mainsail and along the gunwales. I purchased it from a French dealer, so I imagine it never left the country. I wonder how many folks have admired this ship?
