Russia, Imperial. An Order of Saint Vladimir, Civil Division III Class Cross, c. 1916

(Орден Святого Владимира, 3-я степень крест). Instituted 3 October 1782 by Catherine II. (c. 1916 issue). Constructed of gilded bronze with multi-coloured enamels, consisting of a Cross Pattée with red enameled arms trimmed with black enamel, the obverse bearing a central black enameled medallion overlaid by a hand-painted monogram of Saint Vladimir, the reverse bearing a central black enameled medallion overlaid by a silvered Julian calendar institution date of “22 СЕНТЯБРЯ 1782” (“22 SEPTEMBER 1782”), the twelve o’clock arm with an integral loop and suspension ring retaining a period original ribbon, unmarked, measuring 44.88 mm (w) x 48.85 mm (h), weighing 20.5 grams, with minor flecking and verdigris visible to the enamels and bronze base metal, respectively, unmarked but typical cross by maker "Eduard", a superb wartime piece in near extremely fine condition.