PORTUGAL, ORDER OF THE TOWER AND THE SWORD, A MAGNIFICENT COMMANDER’S SET OF INSIGNIA, UNSIGNED, CIRCA 1825 |

comprising:(i) Neck Badge, in two-colour gold, silver, diamonds and blue and green translucent enamel on guilloché ground, the gold centre with laureate bust of King João VI in high relief, legend joão. d. g. reg. de port. p. do brasil in blue-enamelled circle around; the reverse in plain two-colour gold with engraved decoration and central medallion depicting sword in laurel wreath within the motto of the Order valor e lealdade, Tower above; the badge fitted with a reeded suspension ring linked to a gold riband carrier decorated with oak leaves and acorns and pendent from original neck riband fitted with a gold clasp for wearing, width of badge 69.5mm.;(ii) Breast Star, in silver, gold, diamonds and blue and green translucent enamel on guilloché ground, the gold centre with applied sword over laurel wreath in gold and enamels, legend of the Order valor e lealdade and date of its foundation 1808 in blue-enamelled circle around, applied Tower above on upper ray of the star and the lower rays each decorated with gold flames; the plain reverse fitted with a flat spring-type vertical suspension pin for wearing, height 84mm., width 76mm. (lot)

Conferred upon Lord Arthur Marcus Cecil Hill (later 3^rd Baron Sandys, 1798-1863) on 17 November 1825, in recognition of his service as Secretary to Sir Charles Stuart’s Legation to the Imperial Court of Rio de Janeiro and the successful conclusion of the Friendship Treaty between Brazil and Portugal marking Brazilian Independence, ratified by João VI on 15 November 1825.

The insignia are in excellent, original condition with considerable surface dust, dirt and tarnish, having remained uncleaned for many years. The stones are thought to be all original and complete, as issued. There is minimal loss of green enamel to a couple of laurel leaves at the centre of the Star and the blue enamel at the lower left point of the Star shows, on close examination, some tiny strain cracks.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."