Beschreibung:

A magnificent and highly important diamond-set Badge of the Order of St. Andrew, unsigned, circa 1800 with central finely-enamelled figure of the Saint on Cross, with diamond borders and letters SAPR, supported on a crowned double-headed eagle formed entirely of diamonds except for ruby eyes and gold beaks and claws, the gold reverse delicately engraved to simulate plumage and carrying a later-applied gold plaquette engraved [-insert Russian text-] The Empress Maria Fedorovna agreed to wear this Badge, November 26th 1890, with pivoting Imperial Crown suspension also set with diamonds and fitted with gold riband-carrier and two retaining hooks for wear from either a Sash or Collar, slight wear to the enamel on the Saint's left arm, in excellent condition overall 130.5mm by 87.8mm, weight 161.75g, including approximately 45 carats of diamonds