Bavaria, Kingdom. A Royal Order of Merit of St. Michael, II Class Cross in Gold, c. 1900

(Verdienstorden vom Heiligen Michael Kreuz II. Klasse in Gold). Instituted 16 February 1837 by King Ludwig I. (1887-1918).  Constructed of 18K Gold with multi-coloured enamels, consisting of a Cross Pattée with dark blue enameled arms, the obverse overlaid by a central oval medallion bearing a raised and intricately-detailed depiction of St. Michael, wielding a cluster of lightning bolts and a shield bearing an inscription of “QUIS UT DEUS” (“WHO IS LIKE GOD”, the Hebrew origin of the name Michael) while trampling the devil, the reverse overlaid by a central circular medallion bearing a blue enameled inscription of “VIRTUTI” (“VIRTUE”), the twelve o’clock arm topped by an arabesque suspension with a functional swivel hinge connecting to a hollow crown suspension, in turn topped by a ring and loop retaining a period original full length of confectioned neck ribbon, unmarked, measuring 46.78 mm (w) x 84.64 mm (h) (inclusive of suspension), weighing 28.1 grams, demonstrating expert restoration of some of the arm enamels with evidence of compression to the bottom of the frame of the six o’clock arm, a stunning and jeweller-quality example in near extremely fine condition.