Austria, Empire. An Order of Leopold, Grand Cross, by C.F. Rothe, c.1915

(Österreichisch-kaiserlicher Leopold-Orden). Instituted 1808. A superb and rare star in silver, center applique in silver gilt and enamels, measuring 85 mm (w) x 86 mm (h), of fine quality manufacture, maker marked with “C.F. Rothe Wien, silver hallmarked A A 900”, also marked on reverse cartouche “FR and hallmark for silver 900”, with fine toning and minimal contact to enamels, in extremely fine condition. Seldom awarded, very attractive and scarce.