Spain, Kingdom. An Order of Dominic, Cross, c.1770

IN silver, a white and black enamelled Order of Preachers Cross, with decorative symbols in each quadrant, the reverse mirrors the obverse with inverted enamel, measures 39.8mm (w) x 42.5mm (w), weighs 7.7 grams, accompanied by a later period ribbon, cross bearing enamel chips and cracks on both sides, remains in very good condition; a very scarce decoration. The Order of Preachers (Latin: Ordo Praedicatorum) - also known as the Dominicans Order, is a Catholic mendicant order of Pontifical Right founded in France, by a Spanish priest, saint and mystic, Saint Dominic. It was approved by Pope Honorius III via the papal bull Religiosam vitam on 22 December 1216. The Dominican Order played a leading role during the Spanish Inquisition, its members widely employed to combat heresy by finding real heretics, preaching, and sermons. They did everything they deemed necessary to make the accused individuals confess.