(Orden der Westfälischen Krone) Instituted 25th of December, 1809 by King Hieronymus I of Westphalen. An extremely beautiful decoration in outstanding quality, composed of Diamonds, silver, gold and enamel. The badge presents a central coat of arms with a lion and horse on each side of the half eagle-half lion center, all based on a crown and surmounted by an ornate left facing eagle, the obverse is based in silver and is completely set with cushion cut diamonds or rose cut diamonds, the reverse design mirrors the obverse, in Gold, with blue enamel on the base of the crown with the inscription ERRICHTET DEN XXV DEZEMBRE MDCCIX (Character and Honesty), the badge is surmounted by a large diamond encrusted integral ring, attached to a unique pin suspension, measures 24.61mm (w) x 56.90mm (h – inclusive of integral ring), weighs 22.6 grams - an exquisite and rare order, in extremely fine condition.
Footnote: The Order of the Crown of Westphalia was founded on December 25, 1809, by Napoleon's brother Jerome Bonaparte, also known as King Hieronymus I of Westphalia. The Order was established in three grades and could be awarded to civilians and military personnel. It was conferred upon individuals who rendered exceptional service to the crown and state. Awardable acts included performing acts of heroism or humanity and making useful discoveries.
Provenance: Previously offered by Andreas Thies, Catalogue No. 53, Lot 107. This decoration was valued at €40,000 in February 2013. The description is as follows: “Order gem in brilliants. Silver, gold and enamel. The front completely set with cushion cut diamonds or rose cut diamonds. The gold medal is placed on the back of the silver frame. The crown ring in blue enamel. On a handle with a needle on the back. As can be seen in some contemporary portraits from around 1810 - 1812, König wore Jerôme even on various occasions the jeweled decorations of the Westphalian crown. At the Musée Napoléon in Fontainebleau, a jewel of the order from the preserved the king's property. The court painter Francois-Joseph Kinson portrayed some of the exposed dignitaries of the Kingdom of Westphalia with gemstone decorations. Although this gem in the dimensions of a knight's decoration 1st class corresponds, it is very likely a gem of a "Grand Commander " Gorgeous work. Magnificently worked order jewel of the greatest rarity.”
Also featured in “Orden 1700-2000, Part 4” by Karsten Klingbell, published 2013, pages 41 and 45. Identified as a “badge of the commander, completely set with diamonds on the front, made by the Paris Goldsmith Gibert.”