Belgium, Kingdom. An Order of Leopold, I Class Grand Cross Star with Swords, by G.Wolfers, c.1914

(Dutch: Leopoldsorde, French: Ordre de Léopold). Instituted in 1851. In silver with Gold swords with red and black enamels, backed by Gold swords, mounted to an eight-pointed silver star base, each of the star points with multi-faceted rays, maker marked "G. WOLFERS & FILS BIJOUTIERS RUE DE LA MADELEINE 35 BRUXELLES / SPECIALITE DE CROIX & RUBANS D'ORDRES" on the reverse cartouche, measuring 82.5 mm (w) x 88.5 mm (h), vertical pinback flanked by dual stays, crazing evident in the red enamels on the centrepiece ring, the cartouche rotated thirty degrees to the right, near extremely fine.

Footnote: The Order of Leopold is one of the three current Belgian national honourary orders of knighthood. It is the highest order of Belgium and is named in honour of King Leopold I. It consists of a military, a maritime and a civilian division. The maritime division is only awarded to personnel of the merchant navy, and the military division to military personnel. The decoration was established on July 11, 1832 and is awarded for extreme bravery in combat or for meritorious service of immense benefit to the Belgian nation. The Order of Leopold is awarded by Royal order and is issued in five classes: Grand Cordon, Grand Officer, Commander, Officer and Knight.