Bulgaria, Republic. An Order of St. Cyril and Methodius with Documents to Luna Davidova, Actress and Poet, c.2005

Instituted May 18, 1909 by Tsar Ferdinand I of Bulgaria. In silver gilt, a large apostol’s cross in light blue enamels with a gilt border, red enamel flames in each quadrant, the obverse medallion features a superimposed gilt portrait of the two Saints, while the outer ring is inscribed EX ORIENTE LUX (Light Comes From the East), the reverse medallion features the colours of the Bulgarian flag, measures 77.43 mm (w) x 81.70 mm (w), weighs 88.05 grams, worn on original orange ribbon with rosette and horizontal brooch on the reverse, in mint condition.

Accompanied by a miniature of the order, in silver gilt and enamels, the obverse medallion featuring the colours of Bulgaria, plain reverse, measures 19.46 mm (w) x 21.33 mm (h), worn on original orange ribbon with pin on reverse, in mint condition.

Contained in the original case of issue, a dark red velvet case featuring the Bulgarian seal on the lid, measures 155 mm (w) x 213 mm (l) x 36 mm (d), functional hinge and clasp, in extremely fine condition.

A Framed Document congratulating Mrs. Davidova on 50 years of remarkable stage activity, identifying her various roles and a book of poetry entitled “Probably.” Signed by Georgi Parvanov, President of the Republic of Bulgaria, measures 277 mm (w) x 365 mm (h), reverse bears a horizontal wire for hanging, in extremely fine condition.

An Official letter from the Minister, Professor Stefan Davailov to Mrs. Davidova, congratulating her on the Order of St. Cyril and Methodius, first degree, “for great services in the fields of culture, arts, education and science.” Contained in a red paper folder with the Republic of Bulgaria seal and title of the Ministry of Culture.

An Official letter from the Minister, Professor Stefan Davailov to Mrs. Davidova, congratulating her on her anniversary, with kind words capturing her talent as an actress. Contained in a red paper folder with the Republic of Bulgaria seal and title of the Ministry of Culture.

Footnote: Luna Davidova was born in 1926 in Kazanlak, Bulgaria. During the war, she was interned in Lom, on the bank of the Danube until liberation. She starred in numerous productions, making a notable impact on Bulgarian culture and arts. A 2003 interview with Mrs. Davidova provides her life story: https://www.centropa.org/en/biography/luna-davidova/.