Complete Grand Cross Set, instituted in 1925. Large Order's Badge, 117x97 mm, gilt Silver with black 2 enameled double eagles (symbol of the Greek Orthodox Church) and two crowns with red enameled inner cap (representing the Eternal Kingdom of Faith) on each side, obverse centre medallion with finest, polychrome, miniature painting with the image of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, blue enameled outer circlet with gilt Greek inscription "IN THIS SIGN YOU WILL WIN" and "JERUSALEM MOTHER OF THE CHURCHES", reverse medallion with the coat of arms of the Orthodox Patriarchy of Jerusalem painted in the finest "engrisaille" miniature enamel, blue enameled outer circlet with gilt, inscription "JERUSALEM MERE DES EGLISES" and "EN ETEI 312", trefoilshaped upper loop with inner cross. Crowned Sash Badge, 87x35 mm, in "frosted" gilt Silver with black enameled cross and green enameled "palms" between the arms, gold centre medallion with enameled image of Christ "Pantokrator", blue enameled outer circlet, with Greek motto "IN THIS SIGN YOU WILL WIN" and "JERUSALEM MOTHER OF THE CHURCHES", reverse with black enameled, greek motto"IN THIS SIGN YOU WILL WIN" and "EN ETEI 312" on the arms, gold centre medallion with miniatureenameled scene of the Holy Birth of Jesus Christ, blue enameled outer circlet with motto "JERUSALEM MERE DES EGLISES", the cross can be opened and the inside contains a drop of beewax sealing a fragment of the Holy Cross, original, red sash. Breast Star, 94 mm, with Silver rays, the centre, with the order's badge, with enameled details, the reverse, with maker's escutcheon of Lemaitre, Paris, broad pin (French marks) and two hooks. An extremely rare set, in the best French quality, extremely fine condition. This Order, of which is not known a date of institution, is not connected to the Greek State, but directly awarded by the Head of the Greek Orthodox Church, is kept in the highest consideration and importance, it is awarded to highest personalities, in recognition of outstanding merits in the defence of Christianity. RR! I


Country: GREECE