Qing Dynasty. Order of the Double Dragon Second Class Second Grade Breast Star ND (1881-1896) UNC,  cf. Barac-26 (pictured without star), cf. Werlich-259 (without star), Li-pg. 13. 90mm. 97.81gm. By Feodor Rucket (a Faberge workmaster in Moscow). Type I. Silver with green and blue enameling and carved pink coral in the center. Two oblong stamps, reading "84 (with cross implements)" and "ΦR" (workmaster's initials) both on the reverse and the pin clasp. By all indications an extremely rare Qing decoration, first instituted by the Empress Tsu-hsi on February 7, 1882, with this particular class and grade, according to Werlich, being reserved for "consul-generals and foreign or Chinese major generals and rear admirals." Listed without a reference price in Li and featured on the cover of his catalog of Chinese orders, this particular example appears exceedingly mint, not a mark in the enamel or central coral with a lightly matte texture to the rays. Some extremely minor handling exists on the reverse, giving one of the few indications that it was worn, even the noted stamps appearing finer than Li's example. The only comparison we can draw the prospective bidder's attention to is an unusual issue with a central pearl instead of coral (which Werlich suggests was used for the First Class, Grade One), sold by Baldwin's in their August 2010 Hong Kong Auction 49 for $70,000 (lot 850). Needless to say, likely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity not to be overlooked by connoisseurs of Imperial Chinese medals and militaria!

HID09801242017

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