Portugal, Kingdom. An Order of Our Lady of the Conception of Vila Viçosa, Grand Cross Breast Star, c.1900

(Ordem de Nossa Senhora da Conceição de Vila Viçosa, Grã-Cruz, Estrela de Peito) Order of Our Lady of the Conception of Vila Viçosa, Grand Cross Breast Star – Silver, gold, and enamels, measuring 91 mm (width) x 132 mm (height) inclusive of its crown suspension, with a double vertical pin and hook on the reverse, maker marked “DE SOUZA / 107 / RUA AUREA,” on the reverse centre disk. Obverse with faceted eight-pointed star overlaid with white enameled straight rays tipped with silver five-pointed stars, central gilt medallion bearing the intertwined monogram “AM” (Ave Maria) within a blue enameled ring inscribed “PADROEIRA DO REINO” (Patroness of the Kingdom), all surmounted by a finely detailed openwork crown set with green stones. Reverse with circular retaining plate over the medallion. Light contact marks from age and wear, small enamels contact marks, very fine to near extremely fine.