(Real Orden de Damas Nobles de la Reina Maria Luisa). Instituted by Charles IV King of Spain on April 21, 1792. Queen Isabel II’s period (1833-1868). Of high quality manufacture, an impressive and highly desirable Dame’s badge in 18kt Gold, consisting of an exquisite four-armed cross with double-ended, embellishing by finely enameled white and purple arms with elegant cut Gold edges, each quadrant featuring alternated hand-detailed heraldic symbols of the Castles and Lions chaining by a delicate mobile chain, surmounted by a highly precise hand-etching laurel wreath with enameled blue bow, with obverse centre superposing by a hand-painted figure of St. Ferdinand in blue, white, yellow and red enamels, on a hand-etching Gold background surrounded by a beautiful faceted enameled purple border, the reverse centre presenting delicate typical of period cypher of Maria Luisa surrounded by the inscription R. ORDEN DE LA REINA MARIA LUISA, measuring 28.85 mm (w) x 48.89 mm (h - inclusive of integral ball), weighing 16.6 grams, suspended by original ladie’s bow, superb item near to mint.
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. Currently, the Order is awarded to women who displayed philanthropy behaviour which helped to encourage culture and understanding of Spain.