Physical Description

A circular medal with a raised border, constructed of bronze. The obverse features the left-facing portrait of the Grand Duchess with the circular inscription ‘ALICE GROSHERZOGIN VON HESSEN’. Below the neck is the stamp cutter’s signature ‘J. RIES’. The reverse features a wreath of laurel, tied at the bottom by a ribbon, with the inscription ‘IN MEMORIAM’ in the centre. Below the ribbon is a small letter ‘R’ for Ries. On a loop for suspension, on a ladies-style white bow ribbon with a broad red centre and narrow light blue side stripes.

History

The Alice Medal was instituted by Grand Duke Ludwig IV in commemoration of his deceased wife, Grand Duchess Alice.

The medal was initially conferred upon the members of the Grand Duchess’ Women’s Association (Alice-Frauenverein), and later it was also awarded to individuals who provided extraordinary services within hospitals and in the field of welfare.

The Women’s Association was founded by Grand Duchess Alice on September 7, 1869, with the goal of training nurses and improving nursing practices.