(Ordre de la Légion d'Honneur, Chevalier). Instituted in 1802. (1852-1870). In silver with blue, white and green enamels, both centrepieces in Gold, hallmarked with a boar's head on the tip of the ribbon on the reverse, measuring 43 mm (w) x 69.5 mm (h) inclusive of its crown and laterally-pierced ball suspension, both sides with chipping and crazing evident in the white enamels on all five arms, along with loss of the green enamels on the wreath in multiple locations, original ribbon, fine. In its hardshelled case of issue, black pebbled exterior, inscribed "LÉGION / D'HONNEUR / CHEVALIER" in gold-coloured ink on the lid, inside lid in white cloth, padded and maker marked "PAPETERIE / E. MAUCLERC / 14.RUE DE LA MONNAIE / PARIS", inset platform incorporating a recessed medal bed in white felt, push release, measuring 54.5 mm (w) x 97 mm (h) x 24.5 mm (d), exhibiting wear and light soiling along with red paint residue on the exterior, white felt of the medal bed soiled, case fair.
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).