(Ordre national de la Légion d'honneur, Chevalier). Instituted in 1802. In silver with white, blue, red and green enamels, Gold centrepieces, hallmarked with a boar's head (denoting French manufacture of 900 silver, post 1838) on the laurel tassels on the reverse, measuring 41.5 mm (w) x 59.5 mm (h) inclusive of its wreath and laterally-pierced ball suspension, repair evident in the white enamels on the arms on both sides, original ribbon, better than fine. In its hardshelled case of issue, inscribed "LÉGION D'HONNEUR CHEVALIER" on the lid, inside lid lined in off-white satin, padded and maker marked "LEMOINE FILS PARIS", base with a raised platform incorporating an off-white felt recessed medal bed, fraying evident in the fabric overlying the hinged area, the exterior exhibiting scuffing on the sides and bottom, case also better than fine.
Footnote: The Legion of Honour (AKA National Order of the Legion of Honour) is the highest French order of merit for military and civil merits, established in 1802 by Napoléon Bonaparte. The order's motto is "Honneur et Patrie" ("Honour and Fatherland") and its seat is the Palais de la Légion d'Honneur next to the Musée d'Orsay, on the left bank of the River Seine in Paris. The order is divided into five degrees of increasing distinction: Chevalier (Knight), Officier (Officer), Commandeur (Commander), Grand Officier (Grand Officer) and Grand-Croix (Grand Cross).