Belgium, Kingdom. An Order Of Leopold Ii, I Class Grand Cross, By Arthus Bertrand

(Dutch: Orde van Leopold II, French: Ordre de Léopold II). Instituted in 1900. Type II (post 1908). Grand Cross: in silver gilt with black and blue enamels, measuring 50.8 mm (w) x 82.3 mm (h) inclusive of its crown and laterally-pierced ball suspension, chipping evident in the blue enamels on the obverse centrepiece, one of the ball finials bent back on the arm at 9 o'clock, traces of gilt remains; and Breast Star: multi-piece construction, insignia in silver with blue and black enamels, mounted to a ten-pointed silver star base, maker marked "ARTHUS BERTRAND PARIS" on the reverse cartouche, hallmarked with a boar's head on the pin, measuring 86.5 mm (w) x 90 mm (h), gilt vertical pinback flanked by dual stays, extensive chipping evident in the blue enamels on the obverse centrepiece. Dark patina on both pieces, together, better than very fine.

Footnote: The Order of Leopold II is an order of Belgium and is named in honour of King Léopold II. The decoration was established on August 24, 1900 by Leopold II as king of the Congo Free State and was in 1908, upon Congo being handed over to Belgium, incorporated into the Belgian awards system. The order is awarded for meritorious service to the sovereign of Belgium, and as a token of his personal goodwill. It can be awarded to both Belgians and foreigners, and is seen as diplomatic gift of merit. The order has become a long service order for people in the civil service and is awarded alternatively with the Order of the Crown, as the Order of Leopold is awarded under rarer circumstances. The order currently stands third after the Order of Leopold (1st) and the Order of the Crown (2nd) in the Belgian honors hierarchy. The Order of Leopold II is awarded by royal decree, in five grades: Grand Cross, Grand Officer, Commander, Officer and Knight, along with three medals (Gold, Silver and Bronze).