An Order Cross Pour le Mérite by Baudesson, circa 1800 Neck cross with gold frame characteristic of the crosses of the 18th and early 19th century, the separately inserted, re-engraved eagles typical of the order jewellers Baudesson, a family business in Berlin, set between the cross arms enamelled in light blue on a white enamel base. The double suspension ring (slightly misshapen, repaired) in a round decorative eyelet, the crowned name cipher of the order‘s founder Frederick II and the order motto “Pour le Mérite”, already executed in Antiqua font (from circa 1780 onwards), burnished onto the enamel of the obverse using smooth gold foil (some small imperfections) and shaded with black enamel paint. Small chips in the enamel on both sides. On the long, customised neck ribbon with clear signs of wear. Width 48.3 mm. Typical production by Baudesson et fils 1786 - 1806 under Fréderic Schüler, the son-in-law of the company founder Daniel Baudesson (1716 - 1785), who, after the death of the latter‘s son Louis in 1788, was in charge of the company. Apart from Carl Friedrich Mollard in 1794/95, the Baudesson family was the only manufacturer of the Pour le Mérite Order privileged by the king in the last third of the 18th century. The preserved original order ribbon is attributed to the silk weaver Eissenhart, who was privileged in 1787 and who delivered the ribbon at a length of 1.5 cubits against payment of 1 thaler for the crosses, sold at 22 thalers. Extremely rare decoration, in excellent condition considering its age. Provenance: Probably from a North German/ Hamburg family of officers or nobility, most likely exchanged for goods in kind with farmers, who were the ancestors of the present owner. 339350 II + € 15.000 | 87
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