Lot 165
Cross of the Order of St. Louis. Gold and enamel badge worn by French Catholic officers "in recognition of long and faithful service or extraordinary merit" (normally 25 years). The order was established by King Louis XIV in 1693. The inscription on the reverse, VIRTUTIS PRAEMIUM BELLICAE (gold letters against deep blue enamel background) may have been the inspiration for the motto on the Society of the Cincinnati insignia, and the jewelers' methods of producing the Cross were similar to those used in make the early Society eagles. The white enamel cross has gold inlays; gold fleurs de lis are between each arm of the cross and at the top. The cross hangs from a red ribbon with a bow, attached to a gold loop. The obverse inscription is in gold letters against deep blue enamel and says, LUG. M. INST. 1693. The figure is a gold king in blue and white cape against a red background; the figure on the reverse is a sword through a wreath, in green, gold, and white. This cross is likely early 20th century.
Estimated Value $1,000 - 2,000.
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| Realized $575 |
