FRANCE. Russia. Visit of the Russian Squadron to Toulon, 1893.
70mm silver, by Chaplain. Maier 74, Baxter 11. Accolated busts of the two nations, Russia in jeweled tiara and necklace, Miss France more maidenly with a laurel sprig; below, clasped hands. Reverse: Goddess standing, hailing the naval vessels in the harbor.
Chaplain's portraits suggest classical Greek models, but it is his genius that they also look like a pair of real girls. With lovely color.
EXTREMELY FINE-ALMOST UNCIRCULATED.