Saxony, Kingdom. An Albert Order, II Class Knight’s Cross with Swords

(Albrechtsorden, Ritterkreuz II. Klasse mit Schwertern). Instituted 31 December 1850 by King Friedrich August II. (1890-1918 issue). Constructed of gilded silver with multi-coloured enamels, consisting of a Latin Cross with white enameled arms and crossed swords piercing the centrepiece, the obverse bearing a central white enameled medallion, overlaid by a gilded and rightward-facing profile of Duke Albert III, set within a blue enameled ring bearing a gilt inscription of “ALBERTUS ANIMOSUS” (“ALBERT THE BOLD”) with arabesques, the reverse bearing a central white enameled medallion, overlaid by a gilded and enameled Saxon coat of arms, set within a circular blue enameled ring bearing a gilt institution date of “1850” with arabesques, the twelve o’clock arm topped by a loop retaining a period original ribbon, unmarked, measuring 34.30 mm (w) x 44.61 mm (h), weighing 17.3 grams, in extremely fine condition.