Austria, Imperial. An Order of Franz Joseph, Knight in Case by Wilhelm Kunz, c.1917

(Franz-Joseph-Orden Ritterkreuz mit Etui). Instituted 2 December 1849 by Emperor Franz Joseph. 1(849-1918 issue). In bronze gilt with multi-coloured enamels, consisting of a Ruppert Cross with red enameled arms, overlaid by a central white enameled medallion bearing a raised monogram of Emperor Franz Joseph, the reverse overlaid by an analogous white enameled medallion bearing a raised institution date of “1849”, superimposed over a double-sided Austrian imperial eagle executed in black enamels with gilt highlights, the obverse of the eagle’s dual heads clutching a multi-link chain in their beaks which is overlaid at the bottom by an inscription of “VIRIBUS UNITIS” (“WITH UNITED FORCES”), the twelve o’clock arm topped by a crown suspension connecting to a suspension ring which retains a period original tri-fold ribbon, the loop maker marked for WILM. KUNZ and WIEN, with a bronze star, measuring 32.47 mm (w) x 55.73 mm (h), weighing 15.8 grams, accompanied by its period original presentation case, constructed of a pressed card stock frame with a faux dark red leather exterior liner, the lid bearing gilt initials “F.J.O.” (“FRANZ-JOSEPH-ORDEN), the interior with a padded white satin lid liner bearing a gilt coat of arms, with a fitted white velvet medal bed, closing with a functional metal spring catch with exterior stud release, extremely fine.