Lot 1317

Previous image preload Next image preload

Description:

A superb pair of items from an unknown recipient of the The Most Noble Order of the Garter, includes a spectacular sash badge from the Kiebel work shop of St. Petersburg, and the large red wax seal which once accompanied the document bestowing the award. The heavily gold-plated silver badge is magnificent. The obverse displays a golden St. George and dragon in combat, laid upon a red enameled field with rays emanating from the center. A blue riband encircles the scene and bears the motto of the order: "Honi Soit Qui Mal Y Pense" in gold letters. The entirety is surrounded by a filigree design about the edge and at top and bottom. The reverse of the badge bears a beautifully rendered, detailed enamel image of a robed Jesus standing behind a white cross. The painting is encircled by faceted silver studs which in turn have fours arms, also made of faceted silver studs, creating a larger cross. These are all set upon a pink enameled surface. As is the case on the obverse, the entirety is surrounded by a blue riband bearing the order's motto, and again decorated with a filigree design. The attached gold jump ring bears the maker's mark "Kiebel" and a pre-1908 assayer's mark: "84" followed by a left-facing bust of a woman, indicating the early date of manufacture and near-sterling silver composition. The St. Petersburg hallmark further dates the piece to the last quarter of the 19th Century. From top to bottom, the heavy badge measures 4 ¾", and it is 3 1/8" across and approaching ¼" in thickness. The badge is accompanied by the Great Seal of the order, once attached to the warrant bestowing the award. The red wax seal, 4 ½" wide, displays St. George and the Dragon on one side, and the crest of the order on the other. The seal is intact, with no breaks nor repairs, and has only a few very small chips to the rim. It is accompanied by the original round antique wood frame in which it was once housed. This is an especially rare grouping. The Order of the Garter was founded by Edward III in 1348 and is regarded as the most prestigious British order of chivalry. Appointments are made at the Sovereign's sole discretion. Membership of the Order is limited to the Sovereign, the Prince of Wales, and no more than 24 living members, or "Companions". The order also includes supernumerary knights and ladies (e.g., members of the British Royal Family and foreign monarchs).

Accepted Forms of Payment:

Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Paypal, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

Shipments are sent via USPS Priority, USPS International Priority, DHL (for most overseas shipments) or FedEx Ground at the auctioneer's option, signature is always required, unless other arrangements are made. Handling and shipping charges will be added to the invoice in one entry. Buyers should be aware that large, framed, fragile or odd shaped items can incur substantial shipping and packing charges. International shipments are invoiced by DIMENSIONAL weight, not the item weight. Please contact us for an estimate before bidding NOTE: Large, heavy or bulky items may not be shipped by the auctioneer - arrangements for shipping of these items via a third-party shipper may be arranged through the auction house. Customers who supply their own courier account number will still be charged a handling fee. Please allow 2-3 weeks for shipments after receipt of payment due to the high volume of packages being shipped.

November 14, 2018 10:00 AM EST
Chesapeake City, MD, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of up to 28% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $99 $10
$100 $499 $20
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 + $10,000