Iran, Pahlavi Dynasty. A Cased Imperial Order of the Lion and Sun, Grand Cross Set, IV Period, Western Version for High Ranks or Royalty, High Quality French-Made

Instituted in 1808. IV. Period (Post 1872). A cased Imperial Order of the Lion and Sun, Grand Cross Set, consisting of:

1. A fine quality French-made breast star, constructed of silver, in the shape of an eight-pointed star with five multi-faceted quills and  green enameled rays between each arm, the centerpiece consisting of a finely detailed hand-painted central medallion bearing a Lion and Sun insignia, surrounded by three multi-faceted rings, the reverse plain, with eight small holes with slightly protruding metal wire to hold the insignia on the obverse in place, with a raised barrel hinge, slender vertical pinback, and leftward-opening round wire catch, unmarked but of fine French-made jeweler’s quality, measuring 95.8 mm (w) x 95.4 mm (l), weighing 87.11 grams. 

2. A matching fine quality French-made sash badge, constructed of silver, in the shape of a six-pointed star with five multi-faceted quills and  green enameled rays between each arm, the centerpiece consisting of a finely detailed hand-painted central medallion bearing a Lion and Sun insignia, surrounded by one multi-faceted ring, the reverse plain, with six small holes with slightly protruding metal wire to hold the insignia on the obverse in place, suspended from a multi-faceted stylized radiant suspension from its period-original sash ribbon, unmarked but of fine French-made jeweler’s quality, measuring 62.6 mm (w) x 71.5 mm (l). 

3. A presentation case, constructed of a lightweight wooden core, with a purple velvet exterior for high-ranking personnel or royalty, with a purple paper underside, missing the interior parts for metal seating, with a weakened paper hinge, intact interior fabric hinge cover, and intact dual hinge stays, the interior of the lid lined with a cotton-silk blended fabric, unmarked, measuring 117 mm (w) x 278 mm (w).

A fine example of a Grand Cross Set for an Imperial Order of the Lion and Sun in its presentation case for high ranks or royalty, in extremely fine condition. 

Footnote: The Imperial Order of the Lion and the Sun was instituted by Fat’h Ali Shah of the Qajar Dynasty in 1808, to honour foreign officials (later extended to Persians) who had rendered distinguished services to Persia. In 1925, under the Pahlavi dynasty the Order continued as the Order of Homayoun with new insignia, though based on the Lion and Sun motif. This motif was used for centuries by the rulers of Persia, being formally adopted under Mohammad Shah. The order was senior to the Order of the Crown, issued in five grades and in a velvet presentation case for high ranking officials or royalty.