Bavaria, Kingdom. An Order of Theresa, Order Cross in Gold with Diamonds, by Eduard Quellhorst

(Theresienorden Kreuz mit Brillanten). Instituted 12 December 1827 by Theresa of Saxe-Hildburghausen. (1855-1868 Issue). Constructed of Gold with diamonds and multi-coloured enamels, consisting of a Maltese Cross with blue and white enameled arms, the obverse with a central white enameled medallion bearing a raised monogram of Theresa of Saxe-Hildburghausen, inlaid with 20 rose cut diamonds, surrounded by a green enameled wreath, the reverse with an analogous white enameled medallion bearing a gilt institution date of “1827”, circumscribed by an inscription of “UNSER ERDENLEBEN SEY GLAUBE AN DAS EWIGE” (“OUR EARTHLY LIFE IS FAITH IN THE ETERNITY”), with blue and white enameled rhombuses between the arms of the cross, the twelve o’clock arm with an integral loop connecting to a finely-detailed hollow Gold crown suspension, with its period original sash ribbon, measuring 1440 mm in length as presented, the integral loop of the cross maker marked “EQ” for Eduard Quellhorst, München, measuring 43.00 mm (w) x 70.00 mm (h) (inclusive of crown suspension), weighing 20.0 grams, a small chip is evident to the obverse white enameled medallion, otherwise in extremely fine condition, accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and appraisal by Andreas Schulze Ising and Bernd Kruse of Medalnet Appraisal Services, dated 27 November 2018.

Footnote: Only 237 Orders with diamond monograms were awarded, and as convention was for the decoration to be returned upon the owner’s death, the example offered is rare.