Louis Dewis (1872–1946) was the pseudonym of Belgian Post-Impressionist painter Louis DeWachter, who was also an innovative and highly successful businessman. He helped organize and managed the first department store chain.
Louis Dewis
Maison Dewachter and family residence (above), 36 Rue de St-Cathérine, Bordeaux (2006 photo)
The Old Beggar (Bordeaux, France), 1916, shown at Le Salon franco-belge in 1917, where Dewis's work was first seen by Georges Petit
Dyle Bridge at Mechelen, Belgium, c. 1919
Medal of French Gratitude
The Medal of French Gratitude was a French honour medal created on 13 July 1917 and solely awarded to civilians. The medal was created to express gratitude by the French government to all those who, without legal or military obligation, had come to the aid of the injured, disabled, refugees, or who had performed an act of exceptional dedication in the presence of the enemy during the First World War. The creation of this distinction was mainly the result of unsuccessful offensives of General Nivelle in 1917 and the serious crisis of confidence in France. The French government thus wanted to thank those who, despite the crisis, were always volunteering. It has three classes: bronze, silver, and gold. Nearly 15,000 people and communities were recipients of this award. The medal is no longer awarded, the last award was on 14 February 1959.
Bronze level, type 2 (obverse)
Type 1 silver grade award (obverse)
Resistance fighhter Albert Kohan, a recipient of the Medal of French Gratitude
American philanthropist Ellen Ridgway, a recipient of the Medal of French Gratitude