Czech Religious Item Appraisal

Vintage St. Christopher Motorist's Badge (Sv. Kryštof Ochránce Motoristů)

This is a circular, multi-component motorist's badge or car mascot plaque featuring Saint Christopher, the patron saint of travelers. The item is constructed from a silver-toned base metal, likely a chrome-plated zinc or nickel-silver alloy. The central design depicts a high-relief, dark-patinated figure of St. Christopher carrying the Christ Child on his shoulders amidst swirling water, layered over a vibrant red-enameled triangle and an inner three-spoke wheel motif. The outer rim is inscribed with the Czech text 'SV. KRYŠTOF OCHRÁNCE MOTORISTŮ' (St. Christopher Protector of Motorists). The piece exhibits a varied condition: the base metal shows significant surface wear and oxidation, while the central figurine has a thick, dark tarnish or intentional bronze-like patina. The red enamel appears largely intact but may have fine surface abrasions. The craftsmanship features a mix of cast relief and pressed metal work with cold enamel filling. Based on the typography, language, and design, this piece likely originates from Czechoslovakia and dates to the mid-20th century (circa 1930s-1950s). The piece is missing its original mounting hardware, which would have typically been a screw-post or magnetic backing for car dashboards.