A Grand Cross Set: Sash Badge in Gold as a red enameled cross with green/white enameled border, flanked by polished, golden beams and surrounded by a golden laurel and palm wreath; obverse centre medallion with the polychrome enameled image of the Holy Virgin on yellow enameled ground, with golden beams; green enameled outer circlet bearing the golden inscription “RELIGION INDEPENDENCIA UNION”; white enameled reverse centre medallion, bearing the motto “AL MERITO Y VIRTUDES” (the correct motto of this order, when of “Imperial” type) within green enameled border; hinged upper link as a crowned, golden, chiseled eagle with open wings, holding a snake and resting on a cactus; grooved, suspension ring; with the original, full length sash; Breast Star in gilt Silver the rays alternated with polished rays and imitating the sequins; the centre as the badge’s obverse in gold and enamels; polished reverse with maker’s escutcheon of Lemaitre, Paris and vertical pin; TOGETHER, the original award document to Count Prosper de Chasseloup-Loubat, dated April 10th 1864, with the original signature of the Emperor.
An extremely rare group, especially when in Gold, with a sound provenance, excellent quality and condition.
Dim.: the badge, 84,0 x 56,0 mm.; the star, Dia. 82,0 mm.
Note: Prosper de Chasseloup-Loubat (18051873), descended from a distinguished, noble Huguenot family, converted to catholicism in the 17th Century, was also godson of Napoleon I and his first wife Josephine. Having received a higher education and thanks to the influent relationships of his father, he was able to enter in the State Council, where his administrative and political career started. Many times elected to the legislative assembly, he was also appointed MInister of the Navy and of the Colonies. I RR!