KNIGHT'S CROSS OF THE ORDER OF THE LEGION OF HONOR, jeweler's example commonly called "Cent-Gardes model", 1852-1871, Second Empire. 28063
Silver and enamel star with five double rays with dappled points, white enameled, framed by a light green enameled branch of oak leaves and laurel leaves. Obverse center in gold representing the effigy of Emperor Napoleon I in head-to-sinister profile on a smooth background, bordered by a blue enamel scroll with the inscription in gold letters “NAPOLEON EMPEREUR DES FRANÇAIS”. Center reverse showing the imperial eagle on a smooth background, bordered by a blue scroll bearing the inscription “HONEUR ET PATRIE”.
Bail in the shape of a crown with eight beaded arches decorated with eagles, topped with an orb with a cross, independent and mobile, orb crossed by a smooth suspension ring. The crown has a hook inside to be passed through the suspension ball of the easel located between the two upper branches of the cross.
H 67 mm, width 41 mm.
France.
Second Empire.
Very good condition, a chip to the white enamel on one branch.
Reference :
28063