Austria, Imperial. An Order of Malta, Commander by Tanfani & Bertarelli, in Case

(Souveräner Ritter- und Hospitalorden vom Heiligen Johannes von Jerusalem, von Rhodos und von Malta). Exact institution date unknown. A superb cased Order of the Knight’s of Malta, Commander Cross, consisting of:

The Commander Cross Neck Badge. A Maltese Cross constructed of gilded silver with white enamelled arms on the obverse and reverse, with fleur-de-lies between the arms of the cross, suspended from a large hollow swivel crown and an elaborate ribbon bearing the Coat of Arms of the Order, on a long longitudinal loop for suspension from its period original and full length neck ribbon, marked TANFANI & BERTARELLI on the reverse of suspension, measuring 48.8 mm (w) x 114.7 mm (l), enamels intact, gilt wear evident, suspension bar is slightly bent between 12 o’clock arm and crown, remains in very fine condition. 

Contained in its original presentation case, constructed of a lightweight wooden core with a lightly textured red faux leather (leatherette) exterior, the exterior of the case embossed with a Maltese Cross in white, the interior of the lid lined with off-white padded silk, embossed with “TANFANI & BERTARELLI”, with a functional exterior paper hinge, intact interior fabric hinge cover, and functional exterior metal clasp closure, measuring 125 mm (w) x 175 mm (l) x 30 mm (d), fading to colour on lid, light wear, in near very fine condition.