Italy, Kingdom. A Sovereign Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem, I. Class Grand Officer Set, c. 1936

(Instituted September 16th, 1572). Sovereign Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem, II. Class Grand Officer set consisting of:

1. A Breast Star. Consisting of a silver eight-pointed star with multiple quillions per arm, the obverse with a Maltese Cross with dual ball finials superimposed on the award, with gilded fans between the arms of the cross, the cross itself is green and white enameled and bears a central gilded oval plaque bearing a rightward-facing depicting of Saint Lazarus, surrounded by a green ring of enamels inscribed “Atavis et Armis” in Latin, the reverse features a functional vertical pinback with a central silver maker’s medallion bearing the inscription of “S. Johnson, Milano, Roma”, otherwise unmarked, measuring 84.3 mm (w) x 83.5 mm (l).

2. A Sash Badge. Constructed of gilded silver and multi-coloured enamels, consisting of a Maltese Cross with dual ball finials, with gilded fans between the arms of the cross, the cross itself is green and white enameled and bears a central gilded oval plaque bearing a rightward-facing depicting of Saint Lazarus, surrounded by a green ring of enamels inscribed “Atavis et Armis” in Latin, the reverse with a gilded central medallion bearing the Coat of Arms of the Order, suspended from a hollow gilded silver swivel crown and a gilded silver Trophy of Arms from its period original and full length sash ribbon, unmarked, measuring 59.7 mm (w) x 92.3 mm (l).

Accompanied by its presentation case, constructed of a lightweight wooden core with a lightly textured red faux leather exterior, the exterior of the case with functional dual metal hinges, with an intact interior fabric hinge cover, and functional exterior metal clasp, the interior of the lid is lined with padded satin and embossed “1936 Johnson, Milano, Roma” in gilt, the case with a recessed area at the top for placement of the sash ribbon with a molded insert to accommodate the breast star, sash badge, as well as the accompanying miniature and boutonniere bearing a beautiful rosette, measuring 170 mm (w) x 310 mm (l), in overall better than extremely fine condition.