A rare diamond-set silver-topped gold-mounted and enamel Order of St Catherine, Grand Cross set of insignia, circa 1890

An Important Swiss Collection (lots 65, 73-96, 171-172, 195-199, 231-234, 253)

A rare diamond-set silver-topped gold-mounted and enamel Order of St Catherine, Grand Cross set of insignia, circa 1890

Comprising:

(i) Sash badge of the Grand Cross, apparently unmarked, silver and silver-gilt, taking the form of a cross-moline, each of the four arms pierced and set with seven rows of cushion diamonds, the enamelled central medallion within a border of similar stones, and the inner bezel set with rose diamonds and depicting the seated figure of St Catherine supporting a white cross, with a small diamond cross superimposed upon it, the gilt and enamelled reverse depicting an eagle’s nest and the legend AQVAT MVNIA COMPARIS, in the suspension pavé set with five large cushions, encircled by rose diamonds, 90mm by 60mm (including suspension ring), with original embroidered and sequined sash

(ii) Breast star, apparently unmarked, with eight silver rayed points, pave-set with cushion diamonds the centre surmounted by an imperial crown, set with rose diamonds and bearing the Russian inscription 'FOR LOVE AND FATHERLAND' in rose diamonds upon a translucent red enamel and gold round, the reverse plate and pin Gold, 97mm by 94mm

Badge 9 by 6cm; Breast Star 9.7 by 9.4cm

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