Medal for the 200th Anniversary of Father Mekhitar's Passing, 1949

ANRO-1771; Babayan-127

Obverse: Inscription "ABATE MECHITAR" along the right edge and "ՄԵԽԻԹԱՐ ԱԲԲԱՀԱՅ" (Abate Mechitar) along the left edge, signifying the Armenian and Italian representations of Abbot Mechitar’s name. The dates "1676" and "1749" are displayed on either side of the field, marking his birth and death. The signature "VARISCO" is placed along the lower border on the right. The central design depicts the right-facing bust of Abbot Mechitar, founder of the Armenian Catholic monastic community, emphasizing his contemplative expression and clerical attire.

Reverse: Inscription "ISOLA DI S. LAZZARO" along the lower edge and "Ս. ՂԱԶԱՐԻ ԿՂԶԻ" (Isola di San Lazzaro) along the upper edge, highlighting the dual linguistic heritage of the community. The name "LORIOLI" appears in the left field. In the foreground, a gondola glides on the water, symbolizing the Venetian context. In the background, the medal depicts the church and monastery of the Armenians on the island of San Lazzaro, showcasing its architectural details. The scene commemorates the 1717 perpetual grant of the island to the Armenian congregation by the Republic of Venice.

Specifications: Silver-plated, 50 mm
Artist / Engraver: Erminio Varisco
Mint: Lorioli
Edge: Plain
Mintage:
Reference: Eleonora Giampiccolo, Il Fondo Varisco del Medagliere Vaticano, Città del Vaticano, 2018, n. 74
Image shown:

Double check if this is issued by Mekhitarist's or the Vatican.