Bidspirit auction | A RUSSIAN IMPERIAL ORDER OF

A RUSSIAN IMPERIAL ORDER OF ST. VLADIMIR, 1ST CLASS BREAST STAR, MILITARY DIVISION, LATE 19TH CENTURY - Silver partially gilt and enameled breast star of the Imperial Order of St. Vladimir, 1st Class, Military Division. The star is composed of eight faceted radiant rays with alternating longer and shorter arms, the principal rays gilt, centered by a circular red enamel medallion bearing the Cyrillic motto ”ПОЛЬЗА ЧЕСТЬ И СЛАВА” translated as ”Benefit, Honor, and Glory”, surrounding a black enamel central disc with the intertwined gold Cyrillic initials of St. Vladimir beneath a crown. Gilt crossed swords applied between the lower rays denote the Military Division, correctly formed with threaded tangs and corresponding reverse mounts. The reverse of multi-part construction with a central screw post, original backing plate and screw washer, the components struck with appropriate Imperial Russian silver hallmarks including ”84” zolotnik standard and maker’s marks consistent with late Imperial private manufacture. The workmanship, enamel execution, ray construction, and sword form correspond to documented examples of 1st Class Military stars produced in the final decades of the Russian Empire, circa 1890–1917. Please make all inquiries before bidding. All lots are sold ”as-is”, refer to our T&C. Helios Auctions offers in-house shipping. In case we can not accommodate a shipping request, a list of additional shippers will be provided. Dimensions: D: 3 1/2 in., (8.9 cm.) Condition: Overall very good original condition consistent with age. Enamels are well preserved with only minor surface wear and no significant losses observed. Gilding to the rays and swords retained with expected light rubbing. Reverse showing natural patina and oxidation.