Iran, Pahlavi Empire. An Order Of Homayoun, Grand Cross Star, C.1960

(Neshaan-e shir o khorshid) Instituted in 1808. A silver eight-point star with sections of twelve smooth rays, central medallion depicts beautiful hand-painted guardant lion holding a silver gilt curved sword, with a silver gilt sun in the background emitting five yellow rays with white enamel dots in each ray’s center, medallion is surrounded by two thin red enamel rings with a thicker central green ring in between, measures 94.5mm(w) x 96mm (l), reverse presents vertical pinback flanked by dual stays, mark on pin denotes “800” (silver), dark patina, light wear to rays, enamels intact, overall very fine condition.

Footnote: The Order of Homayoun was originally instituted as the Order of the Lion and Sun under the Qajar dynasty in 1808. The Order was re-established as the Order of Homayoun, or Order of August or of Light, by Reza the Great, founder of the Pahlavi dynasty, by firman on February 15, 1939. The Order was presented in 5 Classes to senior government officers and foreigners as Iran's third highest honour. The Emperor of Iran was entitled to award the Order in any class on New Years Day in recognition of service made to the advancement of culture, literature, or fine arts, service which promotes the development of the nation, selfless and altruistic aid or financial assistance during times of natural disasters or emergency, substantial innovations, or service provided to the community through charitable organizations. The Order was discontinued following the Islamic Revolution in 1979.