Italy, Kingdom. An Order Of St. Maurice & St. Lazarus, Grand Cross, By Cravanzola, C.1980

(Ordine dei Santi Maurizio e Lazzaro). Instituted in 1572 by Pope Gregory XIII at the request of Emmanuel Philibert, Duke of Savoy. A large modern sash badge in silver gilt, consisting of a white enameled Shamrock Cross with finely enameled green fans in each quadrant, adorned by large hollow Gold Royal Crown, measuring 65.9mm (w) 107mm (h – inclusive of integral ring), measures 39.5 grams, worn on a green sash, enamels intact, in extremely fine condition. Accompanied by the star of the order, constructed of a silver faceted star, with eight points denoting a Grand Cross, overlaid by a white enameled Shamrock Cross with finely enameled green fans in each quadrant, reverse bears principal pin assembly, makers marked with cartouche of E. GARDINO SUCC. CRAVANZOLA., marked 925 for silver fineness, measures 84.3mm (w) x 84.8mm (h), weighs 65.9 grams, enamels intact, 4 o’clock ray bent, in otherwise extremely fine condition.

Footnote: The merged Order of St. Maurice and St. Lazarus was founded by Emmanuel Philibert, Duke of Savory, and approved by Pope Gregory XIII in 1572. The new, combined honour was primarily awarded to foreign and Italian Catholics who had provided extraordinary military and civil services to the State.