An early 19th Century, 1st Class Breast Star of the Order, with finely chiseled and pierced rays, four of which with gold overlay to the tips; black enameled centre medallion with chiseled cross, flanked by the initials “C”, “P”, “K”, “B”; red enameled outer circlet within double, beaded gold border, with the Order’s motto “ПОЛЬЗА ЧЕСТЬ И СЛАВА” (Benefit Honour and Glory), in finely chiseled and separately applied lettering; gilt, concave reverse, the counter- medallion engraved with jeweler’s name “Beaugeois / Rue de la Paix / N.° 2”.
A beautiful star of exceptional, imposing quality, made by one of the most prominent French jewelers, excellent condition.
Dia.: 85,0 mm.
Provenance: the estate of Gabriel Jean Joseph Molitor (17701849); one of the most capable staff officers in the Napoleonic army since the earliest cam- paigns, he saw his first successes with his brilliant manoeuvers on the Swiss territory, under the higher command of Massena and then Moreau, breaking the Austrian troops at Bregenz and Stockach until reaching the Armée d’Italie; he saw action in Dalmatia, where he displayed courage, intelligence and excellent tactical capabilities, then passed to the Armies in the Netherlands until 1813. On Napoleon’s return from the exile at Elba, he was confirmed as Inspector General of the army and wanted him to place his troops in the Alsace. His being faithful again to Napoleon, was the reason of his being put out of service at the return of Louis XVIII after Waterloo, but soon the Marshal Guyon de St. Cyr called him back, again granting the role of Inspector General. Sent with Army of the Pyrenees, he saw again the action in the Spanish war in 1823, where he brilliantly conducted the campaign, On his return he was created Marshal of France. He reorganized the fortification of Paris, became Governor of the Hotel des Invalides and on his death, he had the honour of being buried in the crypt at the Invalides, His name is inscribed in the Arc de Triomphe. He was appointed Grand Cross of the order of Saint Vladimir in 1824. I RR!