An early, embroidered 1st Class Star, the rays of gold sequines embossed sheet-gold and twisted gold and silver wire; all tips ending with tiny loops to affix the star to the habit; centre medallion made of gold-yellow silk with gold embroidered cross with sheet-silver arms and red silk borders; blue silk outer circlet with gold-embroidered order’s motto “PRO FIDE REGE ET LEGE” (For the Faith, the King and the Law”), the whole within a border of twisted, concentric, gold wires; the reverse backed with strong paper and an ancient, inventory label.
An extremely rare piece, dating from the Napoleonic wars, of this important Russian order, descending from the prestigious Polish one, excellent condition.
Dia.: 87,0 mm.
Provenance: the estate of Field Marshal Mikhail Barclay de Tolly (1761 1818): one of the most popular military leaders of Russia during the wars against Napoleon (besides having distinguished himself also along his military career started at the very young age of 15). Commanding the 1st Army against the advancing, French Grande Armée, he practiced the tactics of the “scorched earth”, then leaving the command to Marshal Kutuzov; Barclay’s military skills made him a hero during the counter attacks and the battles that led to the French retreat, being appointed commander-in-chief of the Russian Armies after the battle of Bautzen. Leading the Russian Forces to the capture of Paris, at the arrival in the French Capital he was honoured with the title and rank of Field Marshal. I RR!