Russia, Imperial. An Order of St. Anne in Gold, II Class Cross, c.1870

(Орден Святой Анны). Instituted 1735. Type II. Civil Division. Of superb quality and craftsmanship, typical of the period, in 18k Gold consisting of four near black flat enamelled arms within Gold framing, ornate design in Gold in each quadrant, obverse centre applique a hand painted St. Anne (Anna Petrovna, daughter of Peter the Great of Russia), reverse centre blue hand painted initials "A.I.P.F." (for "Anna Imperatoris Petri Filia": "Anna, Emperor Peter's daughter" in Latin) surmounted by a crown on white enamel, integral ring Gold hallmarked ‘56’ and ‘1870’, measures 46mm (w) x 50.80mm (h – inclusive of integral ring), weighs 28.4 grams (with ribbon), worn on a rosette style ribbon with Imperial Russian brass button with eyelet reverse marked 1895, extremely minor enamel wear, lovely patina and hand painted detailing, a stunning and sought after decoration in near mint condition.

Footnote: The Order grades which have black enamel instead of red enamel on the arms, are early versions of this Order. They are referred to as "Black Annes" and were a popular version awarded in the late 1800s.