Iran, Persian Empire. A Russian Made Order Of The Lion And Sun In Diamonds, C.1880

(Neshaan-e Shir O Khorshid). Instituted by Fath-Ali Shah Qajar in 1808. A superb late 19th century, Russian made decoration, composed of silver gilt, showing four arms with clusters of diamond rays, totalling approximately 9.00 carats of old cut, genuine natural diamonds of good quality, one smooth ray between each cluster (only one retains original green enamel), the center medallion features a hand-painted lion with on a green foreground, surrounded by a ring of 11 larger diamonds, the reverse is marked with a Russian silver hallmark denoting silver fineness, measures 53.0mm (w) x 56.6mm (h – inclusive of integral ring), weighs 16.3 grams, lovely details, a stunning decoration in near extremely fine condition.

Accompanied by a thin green ribbon.

Contained in its original case of issue, a red pebbled exterior, the lid is marked with the Lion and Sun insignia surmounted by the Qajar crown within an open-ended wreath, the interior lid lined in white satin, padded and marked in black ink with the Lion and Sun insignia surmounted by the Qajar crown within an open-ended wreath of laurel leaves and oak leaves above the maker mark "SANIOLMAMALEK / JOAILLIER EN CHEF DE S.M.I. LE SCHAH" (Saniolmamalek of Tehran / Chief Jeweller to the Shah) in English and Arabic, the base presents a black velvet recessed medal bed, measures 85mm (w) x 121mm (l) x 27mm (d), catch and hinge functional, showing overall minor wear and areas of discolouration on exterior, silk covering internal hinge has been ripped, remains in near extremely fine condition.