Russia, Imperial. An Early and Rare Order of Saint Alexander Nevsky, Cross in Gold, by August Wendt, 1841

Instituted 1724 by Peter the Great. Type II. (1815-1855). A rare and beautiful decoration, in 14Kt Gold, a black enamelled cross with highly detailed double headed Gold eagles in each quadrant, the obverse medallion exhibits a lovely hand painted St. Alexander Nevsky on horseback, encircled by a etched border, the reverse medallion presents the cursive SA on a white enamel field with red crown and pendilia details, encircled by a smooth Gold ring, the reverse of the eagles demonstrating feathered etchings and cross hatching on the crown, measures 54.7 mm (w) x 60.6 mm (h - inclusive of integral suspension ring), weighs 33.25 grams, marked 56 on ring denoting 14Kt Gold, and AW maker mark denoting manufacture by gold and silversmith August Wendt, St.Petersburg city mark with date 1841, the suspension ring and win of each eagle presents the St. Petersburg mark, accompanied by a later period red silk sash, centerpieces intact, very minor pitting in black enamels, an early decoration in better than extremely fine condition.