Belgium, Kingdom. An Order of the Crown, I Class Grand Cross, by Henri Walravens, c.1920

(Ordre de Couronne). Instituted in 1897. Badge: multi-piece construction, in silver gilt with blue, white and green enamels, measuring 56.3 mm (w) x 75.5 mm (h) inclusive of its wreath and laterally-pierced ball suspension, the obverse with chipping and loss evident in the white enamels on the left tip of the arm at 5 o'clock, along with crazing present in the white enamels on the right tip of the arm at 7 o'clock, the loop affixed to its full-length sash with bow-tie that incorporates a decorative moiré pattern; and Breast Star: insignia with a multi-piece construction, in silver gilt with blue and white enamels, mounted to a silver gilt ten-pointed star, each star point with five rays, alternating in design, five are faceted, while the other are plain and trimmed with a beaded border, maker marked "HENRI WALRAVENS & Cie / 9.RUE JOSEPH CLAES BRUXELLES / MIDI / FABRIQUE D'ORDRE BELGES ET ÉTRANGERS" on the reverse cartouche, measuring 82.5 mm (w) x 86.7 mm (h), vertical pinback, crazing evident in the blue enamels on the centrepiece. Near extremely fine.

Footnote: The Order of the Crown was instituted on October 15, 1897, with the Palms and Medals being added on June 25, 1898. It is awarded for merit in art, literature, science, commerce and industry and is issued five classes: Grand Cross, Grand Officer, Commander, Officer and Knight; two palms (Gold and Silver); and three medals (Gold, Silver and Bronze).