Hesse, Grand Duchy. A Rare Order of Philip the Magnanimous, Grand Cross Miniature in Gold c.1845

(Orden Philipps des Großmütigen, Großkreuz Miniatur in Gold). Instituted 1 May 1840 by Grand Duke Ludwig II. (1840-49 issue). Type I. Constructed of Gold with multi-coloured enamels, consisting of a subtly elongated Cross Pattée with white enameled arms set within a Gold frame, the obverse inset with a central blue enameled medallion bearing a hand-painted depiction of Landgrave Philip I, within a ring of white enamel bearing a gilt inscription of “"SI DEUS NOBISCUM QUIS CONTRA NOS" (“IF GOD IS WITH US, WHO CAN BE AGAINST US?”), the reverse inset with a blue enameled medallion bearing a hand-painted Hessian lion, within a ring of white enamel bearing a gilt inscription of “"LUDOVICUS II MAGN. DUX HASSIAE INSTIT." (“INSTITUTED BY LUDWIG II, GRAND DUKE OF HESSE”), the twelve o’clock arm with an integral loop and suspension ring retaining a period original ribbon, unmarked, measuring 17.06 mm (w) x 19.60 mm (h), weighing 2.3 grams, flecking is visible through the enamels and both of the centre rings demonstrating sporadic and shallow chipping, a rare example in near extremely fine condition.