Belgium, Kingdom. An Order of Leopold I, Grand Cross Set, Civil Division, by F. Heremans, c. 1915

(Ordre de Léopold / Leopoldsorde). Instituted on August 3rd, 1832. A fine jeweler quality example of an Order of Leopold I, Grand Cross Set, consisting of:

1. The Breast Star. A silver eight-pointed star with multi-faceted surfaces, the obverse with a circular central black enameled medallion bearing a leftward facing crowned rampant lion in gilt, surrounded by a ring of red enamels inscribed “L’Union Fait La Force” in gilded capitalized lettering, the reverse plain, with a central silver roundel marked “Fernand Heremans, Bruxelles”, with a barrel hinge, tapered vertical pinback, and leftward-opening round wire catch, measuring 85.6 mm (w) x 92.2 mm (l), weighing 66.93 grams. 

2. The Sash Badge. A Maltese Cross with ball finials constructed of gilded silver, with a wreath consisting of laurel and oak leaves in the quadrants between the arms of the cross, the obverse with a circular central black medallion bearing a leftward facing crowned rampant lion in gilt, surrounded by a ring of red enamels inscribed “L’Union Fait La Force” in gilded capitalized lettering, the reverse bearing the Royal cypher of King Leopold I, surrounded by a ring of red enamels bearing a laurel wreath in gilt, suspended from a gilded swivel crown and swivel ring for suspension from its full length period original sash ribbon, hallmarked on the ring but illegible, measuring 59.4 mm (w) x 90.8 mm (l), weighing 81.66 grams.

A fine example of this award, with only very slight loss of its gilt finish, along with light chipping/flaking to the enamels on the breast star, in overall better than very fine condition.