200 - STAR OF THE GRAND CROSS OF THE ORDER OF ISABELLA THE CATHOLIC. SPAIN.

STAR OF THE GRAND CROSS OF THE ORDER OF ISABELLA THE CATHOLIC. SPAIN. A rare Star of the Grand Cross of the Order of Isabella the Catholic (Orden de Isabel la Católica), one of the most distinguished civil decorations of the Kingdom of Spain. This insignia represents an outstanding example of twentieth-century Spanish order craftsmanship, combining exceptional jewellery workmanship, noble materials and the rich symbolic language of the Spanish honours system. The star is composed of eight radiating silver rays surmounted by a Maltese cross with bifurcated arms, finished in translucent ruby-red enamel and highlighted with a gilt border. The central medallion displays a finely executed polychrome enamel composition featuring the Pillars of Hercules, a terrestrial globe and the motto Plus Ultra, encircled by a green laurel wreath and a white enamel band inscribed A LA LEALTAD ACRISOLADA POR ISABEL LA CATÓLICA. Above the medallion appears the crowned royal monogram of King Ferdinand VII. The Order of Isabella the Catholic was instituted on 14 March 1815 by King Ferdinand VII under its original title, the Royal American Order of Isabella the Catholic, to reward loyalty to the Spanish Crown and distinguished service in defending the Spanish possessions in the Americas. By Royal Decree of 26 July 1847, the order was reorganised and assumed its present name, becoming one of Spain`s highest civil distinctions awarded for outstanding service to the State, international relations, culture, science, diplomacy and public life. The insignia demonstrates exceptional quality of manufacture, with finely chased details, expertly executed hand-applied enamel and an impressive level of preservation, making it a significant collector`s example of European phaleristic art. Dimensions: 77 × 77 mm. Weight: 64.4 g. Materials: Silver, gilt, enamel. Condition: Very good condition. Minor signs of age consistent with the period of manufacture. The enamel remains well preserved, while the gilding and relief decoration retain an excellent degree of original definition. Width: 7.7cm, Height: 7.7cm, Depth: 1cm, Weight: 0.15kg, Condition: Good, Material: Gilding, ID: ID-ANTQ-3030