(Orden de las Damas Nobles de la Reina María Luisa). Instituted 1792. An finely enameled white Maltese cross with Gold borders and a delicately enameled purple frame in Gold, each quadrant featuring alternating chained lions and castles in Gold, obverse centre applique in white, purple and black enamels set in Gold, superposed elaborate hand figure of Saint Ferdinand, reverse with enameled white and brown central medallion depicting the cyphre of Maria Luisa surrounding by the inscription “R’ Orden De La Reina Maria Luisa” (Royal Order of Queen Maria Luisa), surmounted by Spanish style laurel wreath also in Gold, with flat ring suspension marked with a later Netherlands Gold import mark denoting of .585 purity, measuring 44.30 mm (w) x 78.36 mm (h - inclusive of ring suspension), weighing 32.6 grams, with loss of purple enamels on 9 o’clock arm, on period silk sash, otherwise better than extremely fine.
Footnote: The Order of Noble Dames of Queen Maria Luisa was founded by Charles IV King of Spain on April 21, 1792. It was established at the behest of his wife Queen Maria Luisa who wanted to recognise the services of Court Ladies. The Order was initially restricted to noble Ladies who displayed extraordinary talents and distinguished services. The recipients were personally chosen by the Queen of Spain. Currently, the Order is awarded to women who displayed philanthropy behaviour which helped to encourage culture and understanding of Spain.