Spain, Kingdom. An Order Of Calatrava, Miniature Boutonniere

(Orden Militar de Calatrava). Instituted in 1158. In silver gilt with red enamels, measuring 17 mm (w) x 17 mm (h), traditional raised ring button hole attachment, intact enamels, extremely fine.

Footnote: The Order of Calatrava was one of the four Spanish military orders and the first military order founded in Castile, but the second to receive papal approval. The papal bull confirming the Order of Calatrava as a Militia was given by Pope Alexander III on September 26, 1164. Most of the political and military power of the order dissipated by the end of the 15th century, but the last dissolution of the order's property did not occur until 1838