France, First Empire. An Early Legion of Honour in Gold and Glass Stones, Knight, c.1810

(Légion D’Honneur). Instituted May 19 1802. Type I - First Empire. (1806-1813). A privately made petite and delicate Legion of Honour with Second Restoration medallion. Featuring a five armed Maltese cross, each arm presenting eight glass stones, between each arms sits a silver gilt wreath with green glass stones in each leaf, the obverse medallion in Gold presents a right facing portrait of Henri IV, surrounded by a blue enamelled ring inscribed HENRI IV. ROI DE FRANCE ET DE NAVARRE, the reverse medallion features three small Fleur de Lis, surrounded by a blue enamel ring inscribed HONNEUR ET PATRIE, measures 35.3mm (w) x 48.5mm (h), weighs 9.1 gram, marked on top of wreath suspension with swan punch mark denoting silver imported from countries without a trading contract to France, since 1893, and a partial owl hallmark denoting pieces made from gold, imported from countries without trading contact to France, since 1893, Gold medallion and body from the second restoration period, notable chips to reverse blue enamel ring, all stones intact with minor wear, center medallion loose and will spin, a truly lovely and scarce decoration in near extremely fine condition.

Accompanied by a swatch of period ribbon, ends stitched together, faded but in very fine condition.

Footnote: The Legion of Honour was proposed by Napoleon Bonaparte to the First Council, to create a reward to commend civilians and soldiers who had served the Republic, promoted republican principles and French interests. The Legion would ensure political loyalty and unity among the new French Republic. During the Second Restoration, Type III, the crosses were surmounted by a movable crown. The crown has eight half-arches, and a small cross on top. Medallions may feature a facing-right portrait of Henri IV on the obverse and three Fleur-de-Lys on the reverse. Some versions depicted ball finials.