Spain, Kingdom. An Order Of Isabella The Catholic, Grand Cross Set, C.1900

(Orden de Isabel la Católica). Instituted in 1815. Multi-piece construction, French-made, of most superb quality manufacture, the grand cross presenting a cross pattee in silver gilt with scaled arms and ball finials, with interior red enamelled arms presenting delicate etching, between each arm sits a cluster of five smooth rays, the center medallion features multi colour enamels with a banner across two towers inscribed NE PLUS ULTRA, surrounded by a white enamelled ring inscribed A LA LEALTAD ACRISOLADA, the reverse medallion features the crowned FR cypher on an ultramarine enamelled field, the cross is surmounted by a green enamelled laurel wreath, measures 61.08mm (w) x 89.62mm (h – inclusive of integral loop on wreath suspension), weighs 46.8 grams, marked with boars head on suspension denoting French manufacture post 1828, obverse central medallion has been reenamelled, pleasing tone, a beautiful badge in very fine condition. Accompanied by an original full length sash with bow, in very fine condition.

A breast star of multi-piece construction, French-made, of most superb quality manufacture, the grand cross presenting a cross pattee in silver gilt with scaled arms and ball finials, with interior red enamelled arms presenting delicate etching, between each arm sits a cluster of five smooth rays, the center medallion features handpainted royal iconography, surrounded by a green enamelled wreath with white enamelled banner inscribed A LA LEALTAD A CRISOLA DA POR ISABELLA LA CATOLICA joined with a blue enamelled disc at 12 o’clock with cypher, a surmounting crown above the cypher, reverse presents a single pin assembly with dual stays, pin and catch marked with boars head denoting French manufacture post 1828, measures 75.23mm (w) x 75.15mm (h), weighs 62.2 grams, pin is trapped by catch, light enamel wear to wreath and white banner, minor gilt wear, an overall very pleasing tone and in extremely fine condition.