(Real y Muy Distinguida Orden de Carlos III). Established by King Charles III of Spain on September 19, 1771. Of French manufacture, constructed of 18kt Gold, an exquisite enameled blue white-framed Maltese Cross with ball finials, embellished by a highly detailed hand-chased Fleur-de-lys in each quadrant, the obverse centre is depicting a finely hand-made portrait of the Immaculate Conception in multiple-colored enamels, within Gold central medallion with blue enameled edge, the reverse is featuring a central cypher of Charles III on an enameled blue background, bordered by an enameled white ring inscribed the motto VIRTUTI Et MÉRITO (Virtue and Merit), surmounting by a laurel wreath also Gold, measuring 35.49 mm (w) x 53.60 mm (h - inclusive of laurel wreath and integral ball), weighting 14.9 grams minor loss of enamel, and evident white enamelling chipping in the reverse, suspended by original knight’s ribbon, an outstanding piece in extremely good condition. Accompanied by a striped hard-shelled green case, the interior lid with white-cream silk inscribed by the maker’s name ARTHUS BERTRAND PARIS, with recessed black bed medal, measuring 57 mm (w) x 27 mm (h) x 108 mm (l), presenting minor wearing surface, functional push-button, fine condition.
Footnote: The Royal and Distinguished Order of Charles III was established by King Carlos III/Charles III of Spain on September 19, 1771, to mark the occasion of the birth of his grandson Carlos V/Charles V, future heir of the Spanish throne. It was dedicated to the Immaculate Conception, and was confirmed by Pope Clement XIV on February 21, 1772.