(Neshaan-e shir o khorshid). Instituted in 1808. Silver with six green enamelled rays, handpainted enamelled centrepiece, unmarked, measuring 70.2 mm x 76.7 mm inclusive of its star suspension, chipping evident in the green enamels on all six rays, the centrepiece intact, missing its loop, very fine.
Footnote: The Imperial Order of the Lion and the Sun was instituted by Fat’h Ali Shah of the Qajar Dynasty in 1808, to honour foreign officials (later extended to Persians) who had rendered distinguished services to Persia. In 1925, under the Pahlavi dynasty the Order continued as the Order of Homayoun with new insignia, though based on the Lion and Sun motif. This motif was used for centuries by the rulers of Persia, being formally adopted under Mohammad Shah. The order was senior to the Order of the Crown. It was issued in five grades.

