Bavaria, Kingdom. A Rare Order of the Lion of Bavaria, Reduced Knight, c. 1800

Instituted in 1768 by Charles IV Theodore, Elector Palatine. A very rare decoration, a prinzen size knight in silver, featuring a blue enamelled Maltese cross with rays in each quadrant created a square pattern, the obverse medallion features a rampant lion on a black enamelled field, surrounded by a white enamel ring inscribed MERENTI, the reverse medallion features the crowned C cypher, surrounded by a white enamel ring inscribed INSTITUANA 1768, measures 27.15mm (w) x 32.04mm (h – inclusive of decorative suspension between the knee of the 12 o’clock arm), weighs 5.6 grams, suspended from a small ovular loop, light wear to enamelling, light wear consistent with age, a very rare decoration in extremely fine condition.

Footnote: The Order was created in 1768 by Charles IV Theodore, Elector Palatine, to celebrate his 25th year of reign. The number of knights was limited to 25, including the chancellor. Recipients were originally required to have served the elector house for 25 years. In 1808, Maximilian I Joseph of Bavaria abolished the Order, and no subsequent conferrals were made.