Serbia, Kingdom. An Order Of Saint Sava, I Class Grand Cross Set Belonging To Queen Mother Natalie Of Serbia, 1899

(Orden Svetog Save). Instituted in 1883. Type I (1883-1901). A beautiful I Class Set, consisting of a badge, a white and blue enamelled Maltese Cross with ball finials, double headed crowned eagles in each quadrant, the obverse medallion presents a highly detailed hand-painted Saint Sava in a blue, red, and purple robe, surrounded by a blue enamelled ring inscribed троvломb сконмb вbса прнобрвте and silver gilt faceted ring, the reverse medallion presents the cypher of Milan Obrenović I, suspended from a large well-defined crown, measuring 49.65mm (w) x 84.19mm (h – inclusive of crown suspension and cross adorned integral ball), weighs 52.5 grams, unmarked, small enamel flakes on obverse and reverse arms, loss of enamel to crest in eagles, in extremely fine condition. The eight-point Breast Star is in silver, presenting faceted rays and the obverse medallion superimposed in the center consisting of a white and blue enamelled Maltese Cross with ball finials, double headed crowned eagles in each quadrant, the obverse medallion presents a highly detailed hand-painted Saint Sava in a blue, red, and purple robe, surrounded by a blue enamelled ring inscribed троvломb сконмb вbса прнобрвте and silver gilt faceted ring, the reverse of the star features a singular pin, measures 86.85mm (w) x 87.20mm (h), weighs 75.9 grams, unmarked, residue on reverse, pin and catch functional, in overall extremely fine condition.

Contained in an official case, blue silk exterior with the Serbian Coat of Arms, two swivel hook and eye clasps on exterior front, the interior presents a crème coloured silk lid with replacement red velvet removable medal bed, the base has been inscribed “Queen Mother Natalie 1899” in Serbian, measures 136mm (w) x 280mm (l) x 67mm (d), heavy wear, staining and discolouration to exterior silk, light staining to interior, in near very fine condition.

Footnote: It was on a domestic stage set with republican and radical opposition movements, military coups, and clashing royal court relationships, that Queen Natalie of Serbia witnessed the dawn of the 20th century. Princess of Serbia from 1875 to 1882, Queen of Serbia from 1882 to 1889, and Queen Mother of Serbia until 1903, Natalie would eventually stand as the sole surviving member of the Obrenović dynasty. Her supporting role alongside her husband King Milan Obrenović IV, was absolute in her personal political stance, strong will, and opinion.

Surviving highly publicized scandals, including family turmoil, marital affairs, as well as eventual temporary divorce and abdication, Natalie fiercely defended her personal objectives and interests. Of these, and throughout state and royal upheaval, it was her unwillingness to lose her royal title and status that drove many of her decisions and alliances. It was in 1894, when Natalie's son, Alexander, declared his royal authority, pressed a conservative agenda, and ordered the complete rehabilitation of his mother. Natalie's royal title and position were solidified and in 1899, King Alexander again bestowed her with the Order of Saint Sava, Grand Cross.