Saxony, Kingdom. An Albert Order, II Class Knight’s Cross with Swords, by G.A. Scharffenberg

(Albrechtsorden Ritterkreuz II. Klasse mit Schwertern). Instituted 31 December 1850 by King Friedrich August II. (1890-1918 issue). Constructed of gilded silver with multi-coloured enamels, consisting of a Latin Cross with white enameled arms and with crossed swords piercing the centrepiece, the obverse overlaid by a central white enameled medallion bearing a gilded and rightward-facing profile of Duke Albert III, situated within a blue enameled ring bearing a gilt inscription of “ALBERTUS ANIMOSUS” (“ALBERT THE BOLD”) with arabesques, the reverse overlaid by a central white enameled medallion bearing a gilded and enameled Saxon coat of arms, situated within a blue enameled ring bearing an institution date of “1850” with arabesques, the twelve o’clock arm topped by an eyelet and suspension ring retaining a period ribbon, the six o’clock arm maker marked with the logo of Saxon court jeweller G.A. Scharffenberg, Dresden, measuring 34.52 mm (w) x 44.51 mm (h), weighing 18.8 grams, demonstrating some flecking and loss of finish to the enamels and base metal, respectively, in near extremely fine condition.