Mecklenburg-Strelitz, Grand Duchy. A Rare Order of the Wendish Crown, Grand Cross Star, by Godet c.1900

(Hausorden der Wendischen Krone, Bruststern zum Großkreuz). Instituted 12 May 1864 by Grand Duke Friedrich Wilhelm of Mecklenburg-Strelitz and Grand Duke Friedrich Franz II of Mecklenburg-Schwerin. (1864-1918 issue). A superb Grand Cross Breast Star of the Order of the Wendish Crown, constructed of silver with Gold and multi-coloured enamels, the obverse consisting of an eight-pointed radiant starburst, bearing a central blue enameled medallion overlaid by a raised silver Wendish Crown, situated within a red enameled ring bearing a raised Gold inscription of “PER ASPERA AD ASTRA” (“THROUGH HARDSHIPS TO THE STARS”), situated within ribbed Gold rings at both the inner and outer edges, the reverse with a raised barrel hinge and tapering vertical pinback meeting a flattened catch, maker marked “GODET IN BERLIN” for the noted court jeweller J. Godet & Sohn, measuring 82.68 mm (w) x 81.69 mm (h), weighing 57.8 grams, a rare and striking example demonstrating Godet’s exceptional attention to detail, in extremely fine condition.