Austria, Empire. An Order of the Golden Fleece in Gold, by C. F. Rothe, c.1925

(Ritterorden vom Goldenen Vlies). Instituted by Philip the Good, Duke of Burgundy, in 1429 as an expression of the wealth of the Burgundy Duke. Austrian Version. 1925-1935 Issue. Of very fine quality manufacture and very fine quality enamels, an exquisite Order of the Golden Fleece in 14Kt. Gold, consisting of an Austria’s typical facing-front heraldic figure of the Golden Fleece with details for the fur texture, attached on the top to a set of highly detailed Burgundy flames applique in splendid red enamels, with a central bulge medallion in black enamels and delineate enameled white sparks, surmounted by an adorned partially-enamelled decorative link in the form of a fire-steel striker, showing in relief a portrayal of Jason fighting the dragon beneath of the inscription PRETIUM LABORUM NON VILE (NO MEAN REWARD FOR LABOURS), on the reverse is a portrayal in relief of Gideon fighting the Midianites and above it the inscription NON ALIUD (I WILL HAVE NO OTHER), accompanied by a nicely ornamented partially-enamelled knot on the ribbon also in Gold, both rings attached to enamels lightly marked by maker’s mark "CFR" (for official maker, C. F. Rothe, Wien), along with Austrian hallmark denoting 14 Kt. Gold (also marked 585, for 14kt. Gold), measuring 45.75mm (w) x 86.0mm (h), weighing 49.5gr (inclusive of modern ribbon and ornamental Gold knot), a  very attractive decoration and very rare item in near mint condition.