(Ordre de la Légion d'Honneur, Chevalier). Instituted in 1802. (1870-1951). In silver with blue, red, white and green enamels, both centrepieces in Gold, hallmarked on the tip of the ribbon on the obverse, measuring 40.3 mm (w) x 58.5 mm (h) inclusive of its wreath and laterally-pierced ball suspension, crazing, and/or repair evident in the white enamels on three arms on the obverse and two arms on the reverse, in addition to chipping in the green enamels on the reverse of the wreath, original ribbon, fine. In its hardshelled case of issue, maroon dimpled exterior, inscribed "LÉGION D'HONNEUR / CHEVALIER" in gold-coloured ink on the lid, inside lid in white cloth, padded and maker marked "LOUIS AUCOC FILS et GEORGES AUCOC /E. LANGEROCK / 9.Rue de 4 Septembre / PARIS", raised platform incorporating a recessed medal bed in black felt, push release, measuring 62.5 mm (w) x 113 mm (h) x 27.8 mm (d), exhibiting wear and light soiling on the exterior, along with a slight interruption in the white cloth on the inside lid, case also 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).