France, II Empire. A National Order of the Legion of Honour in Gold, Commander Cross, c. 1865.

(Honneur et Patrie). Instituted in 1802. In 18 karat gold with white, blue, and green enamels, five-pointed star in white enamel surrounded by green-enamelled laurel wreath, each of the arms finished with two finials, obverse centrepiece shows the profile of Napoleon with the inscription “Napoleon Emp. Des Francais” in blue-enamelled ring, reverse centrepiece shows imperial eagle facing right surrounded by blue-enameled ring with the inscription “Honneur et Patrie”, inclusive of crown suspension 87.1 mm (h) x 58.8 mm (w), 45.7 grams, evidence of slight chip in white enamel of obverse arm, red ribbon necklette, mint condition. Housed in original case with inscription “Au docteur Louis Devraigne ses eleves, ses amis”, very fine condition. 

Footnote: The Legion of Honour was instituted in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte. It is the highest French order of merit and is awarded for eminent service to the nation, civilian or military, in five grades: Grand Cross, Grand Officer, Commander, Officer and Knight. This particular model was instituted 16 March 1852. This Legion of Honour was awarded to Louis Devraigne (1876-1846). He was a doctor in obstetrics and the head of the Maternity department at Lariboisiere Hospital and head of the clinic at the Faculty of Medicine of Paris.