An important and historically relevant cross of the Order with rubies, from the property of the Prince of Hohenlohe, 79x35 mm., fire-gilt Bronze Maltese cross, made as a frame to enclose each arm, separately made, white enameled and enriched of three stylized flames each, painted in golden enamel, sky-blue enameled, obverse centre medallion, with the phoenix rising from fire, in the finest, enamel miniature, silver outer circlet, set with 19 rubies, the reverse centre with the pink and white enameled monogram of prince Philipp Ernst under a white and sky-blue enameled Prince’s crown without orb, resting on an eight- pointed star of polished, golden rays, ornamented upper loop of three stylized acanthus leaves, “roped” intermediate ring and grooved ribbon ring, made of gold, original superb ribbon.
An exceedingly rare and beautiful decoration, dating to the institution of the order in 1757, as worn from the Prince himself; almost excellent condition, considering its age. I RR!