#25 • French Early 19th Century Decoration Of Fidelity: Chevalier

Part of British & World Medals (live auction by Bannerman Auctions)

High bid $120.00

Status: Sold

French Early 19th Century Decoration Of Fidelity: Chevalier. French Chevalier (Knight) Decoration Of Fidelity medal circa 1830. This medal was only awarded circa 1816-1831. Star diameter 30mm. Medal exhibits no crazing to white enamel on arms (both obverse and reverse). Blue enamel on center medallions exhibit no chipping on obverse or reverse medallion. Medal presents proper ribbon (newer replacement with slight wear and fading). Estimate: $200 - $400 Historical Background: The French Decoration of Fidelity (Décoration de la Fidélité) was a particular version of the Décoration du Lys, strictly reserved for 600 Guards during the Kingdom of France, around the time of the Bourbon Restoration (1814-1815). The decoration was generally executed in gold and was not widely awarded. Official texts referred to it as a "decoration" rather than an "order" of fidelity. This decoration typically appeared as a silver five-point star with white enamel arms and ball finials. The central obverse medallion, usually in gold, featured a right-facing bust of Louis XVII, encircled by a blue enamel ring inscribed with "FIDELITE DEVOUEMENT" (Fidelity Devotion). The reverse medallion displayed a Fleur de Lis, surrounded by a blue enamel ring inscribed with dates marking key events of the Restoration, such as "12 AVRIL 3 MAI 1814 19 MARS 8 JUILLET 1815." The star was surmounted by a stationary Fleur de Lis and a large movable crown suspension, and was worn on an original blue and white ribbon.