An early Grand Cross Breast Star of large size, from the last years of 18th or the earliest 19th Century; the silver cross’s arms, made to imitate the sequined embroidery, flanked by fleurs-de-lys; oval, yellow enameled centre medallion, with painted golden beams, superimposed by the polychrome enameled image of the Holy Virgin, made of gold, with most finely chiseled details; silver, grooved and roped outer circlet, with the motto “VIRTUTI ET MERITO” in blue enameled lettering and, a central oval, with blue enameled “ciii” monogram; smooth, polished reverse with concave counter-medallion, fitted with vertical, broad pin and two side-hooks.
The stars of this early type, can be considered as very rare; almost pristine condition.
Dim.: 90,0 x 95,0 mm. I RR!