Sweden, Kingdom. An Order Of Vadstena Adliga, Ladies Cross In Gold, C. 1800

A rare award, in Gold, a white enamel narrow anchor cross with handpainted petals in each quadrant presenting pink and yellow detailing, the obverse centerpiece depicts a cypher in Gold on a dark blue enamelled oval, with a Gold crown superimposed on the 12 o’clock arm, reverser mirrors the obverse, measures 39.30mm (w) x 40.58mm (h – inclusive of integral suspension ring), weighs 11.2 grams (including ribbon), worn on a short piece of original ribbon, light cracking and small chips to enamel, integral suspension ring bent, near very fine condition.

Footnote: This order comes in one class only and was awarded to Noble ladies. Vadstena adliga jungfrustift or VAJS, was a Swedish foundation to support unmarried female nobles. In 1747, the foundation began accepting members. A branch in Norrkoping was function from 1783-1796.