Grand Cross Set of the 1st Type. Sash Badge, 117x70 mm, GOLD with white enameled cross and green enameled, oak and laurel wreath, centre medallion of mirror-polished gold bearing the head of King Otto facing right, pale-blue enameled outer circlet with the Greek inscription “OTHON KING OF THE HELLENES” in gold lettering, pale-blue enameled reverse medallion with white cross centred by the blue-white colours of Bavaria and golden inscription around, small upper loop and Royal crown suspension with internal loop to secure the cross, large suspension ring and original sash ribbon. Embroidered Breast Star of the earliest type, 80 mm, with rays and details made of different, Silver threads, silk centre medallion with details in coloured threads, highlighted by gold wires, to make also the inscription within the centre’s outer circlet; the reverse with original paper backing and the remains of the maker’s label of an embroiderer from Paris, in the extremely rare original, red morocco fitted case, the inner cushion, with maker’s mark of Lemaitre, Paris, embossed in gold.
A very rare, early and interesting set, made in the finest, French manufacture, complete with one of the finest and best preserved, embroidered breast stars.
Note: The order was founded in its first form in 1829, the last year of Greece’s war of independence, and with decree by the State’s Council in the name of King Otto in 1833, it was destined to reward any outstanding merit towards the Country, its first pieces were made in Bavaria (Germany), then, almost contemporarily and after the demand of the Greek Court, from all the best jewellers in Europe, especially in France, like Lemaitre and others. We can say say that this award, ranks amongst the world’s most elegant and well-designed orders.