Lebanon, Republic. A National Order of the Cedar, Grand Cross, by Arthus-Bertrand c.1950

(وسام الأرز الوطني‎ Wisām al-Arz al-Waṭaniy ). Instituted 31 December 1936. Type II. 1943-present Issue. Of French manufacture, consisting of an enameled white five-armed cross in silver, embellishing by finely faceted borders in each arm, projecting an enameled green and brown cedar tree in each quadrant, with obverse centre featuring an enameled red medallion inscribed in Arabic ‘Lubnan’ (Lebanon) in silver gilt, reverse centre with an enameled flag of Lebanon, suspended by a loop suspension interlaced by two enameled green laurel branches, the ring suspension is marked by maker’s mark of Arthus-Bertrand along with silver content mark of .800 purity, measuring 60.01 mm (w) x 57.03 mm (h), on a full-length original sash with ribbon at the ends, with strong toned silver and gilt loss, otherwise good/fine. Accompanied by the breast star consisting of a finely faceted five-armed cross in silver, featuring a cedar tree and clusters of seven rays in each quadrant, obverse centre featuring a medallion inscribed in Arabic ‘Lubnan’ (Lebanon), reverse with dual stays and principle pin assembly, marked by maker’s mark of Arthus-Bertrand, along with silver content mark of .800 purity, measuring 68.85 mm (w) x 68.05 mm (h), with toned silver and gilt loss, otherwise good/fine.

Footnote: The National Order of the Cedar was initially instituted by Government Decree on December 31, 1936; but was maintained following Lebanon's independence in 1943. The Order is conferred in 5 Classes, plus a Collar, as Lebanon's second highest civil and military honour, behind the Order of Merit Extraordinary and Grand Cordon Class. The Order is often presented by the President of the Republic of Lebanon in recognition of exceptional service to Lebanon, acts of courage, demonstrations of great devotion and moral value, and for public service. Initial appointments to the Order are always made to the Knight Class. Foreigners and ladies may also be eligible for the award.