Saxony, Kingdom. An Albert Order, II Class Knight’s Cross with Swords and Case, by G.A. Scharffenberg, c.1890

(Albrechtsorden, Ritterkreuz II. Klasse mit Etui). Instituted 31 December 1850 by King Friedrich August II. (1876-1905 issue). Constructed of gilded silver with multi-coloured enamels, consisting of a Latin Cross with white enameled arms and with crossed swords piercing the centrepiece, the obverse bearing a central white enameled medallin overlaid by a gilded rightward-facing profile of Duke Albert III, within a ring of blue enamel bearing a gilt inscription of “ALBERTUS ANIMOSUS” (“ALBERT THE BOLD”) with arabesques, the reverse bearing an analogous central white enameled medallion overlaid by a gilded and enameled Saxon coat of arms, within a ring of blue enamel bearing gilt arabesques and an institution date of “1850”, the twelve o’clock arm topped by an integral loop and suspension ring retaining a period original ribbon, the six o’clock arm maker marked “S” for G.A. Scharffenberg, Dresden, measuring 34.10 mm (w) x 44.68 mm (h), weighing 19.4 grams, accompanied by its period original presentation case, constructed of a light wooden frame with a faux maroon leather exterior liner, the lid bearing a gilt inscription of “A. R. 2.” topped by crossed swords, the interior with a padded white rayon lid liner and partially-intact hinge cover, with a depressed maroon velvet medal bed, closing with a functional metal snap button, the base double-maker marked with the labels of G.A. Scharffenberg, Dresden, and C.E. Kunathe, Dresden, measuring 60 mm (w) x 78 mm (l) x 22 mm (h), with minor material fatigue evident to the case, a superb and matching set in overall extremely fine condition.