Italy, Duchy of Modena and Reggio. An Order of the Eagle of Este, Grand Cross, c.1930's

Sash Badge: in bronze gilt, hollow, the four arms in blue and white enamels, each of which has ball finials at the tips, obverse centrepiece bearing a left-facing crowned eagle in bronze gilt, reverse centrepiece with a scripted "E" (Este) surrounded by the inscription "PROXIMA SOLI" (Of The Sun), measuring 50 mm (w) x 78.7 mm (h) inclusive of its hollow crown and laterally-pierced ball suspension in bronze gilt and red enamels, with elongated loop, the crown exhibiting slight separation along the seam, accompanied by its period silk sash incorporating a decorative moiré pattern; and Breast Star: exhibiting the manufacturing characteristics of an Italian maker, possibly Arturo Pozzi of Rome, cross in blue and white enamels, each of which has ball finials at the tips, the cross bearing a left-facing crowned eagle in bronze gilt and mounted to an eight-pointed silver star base, each star point with five faceted rays, measuring 76.7 mm (w) x 76.3 mm (h), vertical pinback. Together, near extremely fine.

Footnote: The Order was instituted on December 27, 1855 by Francis V of Modena, Duke of Modena & Reggio, to reward the services and the merits of faithful civilians and officers. The order was established under the protection (patronage) of Saint Contardo of Este, a founder's ancestor in maternal line (House of Este) & protector of Modena.