Established on July 11, 1832. Civil Dividion. Constructed of 18kt Gold, an outstanding enameled white Maltese cross with typical ball finials, featuring a highly detailed enameled green wreath of laurel and palm in each quadrant, the obverse presenting a central Belgium lion also in Gold, with an enameled black background, surrounded by elegant enameled red border with French inscription L'UNION FAIT LA FORCE, with mirrored design, the reverse centre depicting a royal cypher of Leopold I also on a black enameled background, within an elegant enameled red ornamental ring, the cross is surmounted by period Belgium crown, measuring 57.61 mm (w) x 84.49 mm (h - inclusive of royal crown), weighting 41 grams, presenting tarnished crown, suspended by loop suspension on original full-length ribbon, near mint condition.
Accompanied by a hard-shelled black case, the exterior lid presenting a crowned gilded cypher of Leopold I, the interior lid is inscribed by maker's mark WOLFERS & FILS, BRUXELLES, in a white-cream silk, with recessed black bed medal in cotton, measuring 83 mm (w) x 34 mm (h) x 147 mm (l), the push-button is not working, presenting wearing surfaces, the box in poor condition.
Footnote: The Order of Leopold was established on July 11, 1832, after a month of contentious debates in Belgian Parliament. It was named to honour King Leopold I, and it has remained the highest-ranking decoration in Belgium since its creation. It is conferred upon Belgian citizens and foreigners in recognition of brave military service and other meritorious services rendered to the state.