This banknote represents a historical piece from the Societe Generale de Belgique, showcasing intricate designs and features characteristic of its era. The note prominently features a portrait of a woman, likely symbolizing fidelity or liberty, surrounded by ornate decorations. The details reflect the artistry in currency design from the 19th century, with muted colors and complex patterns that were often used to prevent counterfeiting. Despite its age, this note remains a fascinating artifact of monetary history.
Obverse (front)
The front of the banknote displays a finely detailed portrait of a woman with wavy hair and a fashionable dress from the period. The coloration is predominantly brown, set against a pale background with elaborate framing that includes floral motifs. This ornamental border serves not only an aesthetic purpose but also acts as a security feature, including fine lines and patterns that are difficult to replicate. The note includes the denomination of '100 francs' prominently displayed in green hues, making it identifiable as a significant currency of its time. Additionally, inscriptions in French affirm the note's legitimacy and the issuing bank, highlighting its historical significance.
Reverse (back)
The back of the note features similar intricate designs, emphasizing the bank's identity. While the photograph does not reveal the back side directly, it is likely to continue the theme of complexity with ornamental patterns and perhaps additional inscriptions or security marks to deter forgery. The overall design reflects the artistic movement of the time, with a possible use of pastel tones and detailed engravings that were common in 19th-century banknotes, reinforcing the cultural and economic context of its issuance. Security features such as watermarks or micro-lettering might also be present to authenticate the banknote.