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    Rusty Greaves

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    Everything posted by Rusty Greaves

    1. The same February 13, 2024 auction by Heritage Auctions as that noted above (Auction 61371) offered a Mixed Courts badge made by Froment Meurice as Lot 25091 (https://coins.ha.com/itm/islamic-dynasties/ottoman-empire/islamic-dynasties-ottoman-empire-silver-judge-s-badge-nd-unc-/a/61371-25091.s?type=notice-winnernotification). This auction also is archived on the CoinArchives webiste as well (https://www.coinarchives.com/w/lotviewer.php?LotID=6772761&AucID=7878&Lot=25091&Val=bbbeaf5979a6dfc22b36228b8a1cfe68). The description identifies the badge as silver, gives a weight of 158.53 g, and gives its approximate dimensions as ~120 x 85 mm. The actual measurements of this badge re 118 x 88 mm. Owain also let me know about this offering by Heritage Auctions. High-resolution image of the obverse of the Heritage Auctions Mixed Courts badge (Lot 25091). This image, and the following photo of then reverse of the badge, are copyrighted by Heritage Auctions (@2023Heritage Auctions). This image does show that this is actually a silver and gold District Courts badge. Vermeil can be seen on the rayed embellishment, the fringe of the mantle, the "embroidered" design on the lateral folds of the mantle, the star above the central tablet, the cords and tassels tying each of the upper corners of the mantle, the central upper crown, each of the oak and laurel branches, the staffs and distal ornaments of the tugs, the small wreath around the Order of Medjidie element, and the central portion and tugra of the Order of Medjidie (also see the last photo in this post). High-resolution image of the reverse of the Heritage Auctions Mixed Courts badge. Note the tag underneath the tunic pin that reads "F.R." on a small handwritten paper tag glued to the reverse, presumably the original owner of this badge. The auction description notes that the associated case has a gilt (?) "FR" on the outside of the upper lid. The reverse is marked "FROMENT-MEURICE" above the two large rivets, but there is no diamond-shaped hallmark with the rose and Froment-Meurice name on this badge. The case for the Heritage Auctions District Courts badge. The name "FROMENT-MEURICE" and the shop address at 372 RUE ST HONORÉ, PARIS' is printed in gold on the maroon satin of the case lid, above the red velvet bed for the badge. As noted, the outer upper lid also bears the initials "F.R." as seen on the tag affixed to the reverse of the badge. These initials appear to be written in black ink, not gilt. As this is a gold and silver District Court badge, it could only have belonged to a judge, not one of the other court functionaries who wore silver badges. The only judge I have been able to identify who is represented by these initials is the Spanish Judge Frédéric Rauret y Sugastres. He was known to go by Frédéric Rauret. Judge Rauret y Sugastres was named to the Mansourah District Court on 16 September, 1892, transferred to the District Court of Alexandria in 27 March, 1897, and was decommissioned due to health issues on 31 October, 1904. As this predates the February 1926 publication of the 50th anniversary volume Les Juridictions Mixtes d'Égypte 1876-1926 Livre d'or Édité sous le Patronage du Conseil de l’Ordre des Avocats á l’Occasion du Cinquantenaire des Tribunaux de la Réforme, par le journal des Tribunaux Mixtes. Alexandrie, Egypte, I am confident there is not another Egyptian or European judge with the F.R. initials who would have been the owner of this badge. Above is the only photo I have currently found of Judge Frédéric Rauret y Sugastres. This image comes from the George Sherman Batcheller, 1837-1908, Papers, 1825-1943, bulk, 1858-1908 (SC11218), in the New York State Library Manuscripts and Special Collections in Albany, NY, USA. This photo, taken in Egypt at an unspecified date, is curated in Box 10, Folder 27, and is identified as: "Rauret, Frederic (autographed); Photographer: Fettel & Bernard, Alexandria (Egypt)". I do not know what awards Rauret y Sugastres is wearing in this portrait. George Sherman Batcheller was a U.S. Civil War veteran and jurist who was recommended as a U.S. judge to the Egyptian Mixed Courts by President Ulysses S. Grant in 1875. Batcheller was appointed to the District Court in Cairo on 10 November, 1875. He was decommissioned on 30 November, 1885. Batcheller was apparently re-appointed to the Courts in 1898, I am uncertain which Court he served at that time. He was promoted to President of the Appeals Court in 1902. The reverse of the studio card portrait of Frédéric Rauret y Sugastres identifying the Fettel and Bernard photo studio in Alexandria (New York State Library Manuscripts and Special Collections in Albany, NY, USA. This photo is in Box 10, Folder 27). The Heritage Auctions Mixed Courts badge was previously sold on 15 October, 2022 by Editions V. Gadoury, Auction 2022, Lot 225, archived on the NumisBids website (https://www.numisbids.com/n.php?p=lot&sid=6035&lot=225). The Gadoury auction illustrated the obverse of this badge (above in a moderate-resolution image) and provided a photo of it in the case (below), there is no image of the reverse of the badge. I previously included both of these Gadoury auction photos as the first two images in my post of 22 September, 2022 on this thread. No mention is made in the Gadoury description of the initials "F.R." on the case nor on the reverse of the badge. Moderate-resolution image of the the Gadoury Auction offering of the same Froment Meurice badge that belonged to Spanish Judge Frédéric Rauret y Sugastres. The distinctions between the silver parts of the badge design and those that are gilt are a bit better defined in the above photo. This image shows the noted damage to the front lower right corner of the case from impact with a right-angled item. Above is a moderate-resolution image of the Heritage Auctions Mixed Courts badge from Auction 61371, Lot 25091. This is a post-auction image that shows well the contrast between the silver and vermeil (gold) in the decoration of this badge. The gilt components on Froment-Meiurice District Court badges are different on some other examples. On some badges, the central tablet and the rays around the star are also gilt, a few have the rayed embellishment around the Order of Medjidie gilt, and on a couple the "embroidery" design on the lateral mantle folds are not gilt, some show no vermeil on the oak and laurel branches, or the tugs. There are also differences in which portions of the design are gilt on District Courts badges by other manufacturers.
    2. Below are high-resolution images of the commemorative medal celebrating 50 years of the revised Indigenous Courts in Egypt. I believe this "National", or "Indigenous", Court replaced the former Sharia Law Court and was part of the modernization of Egypt using the French legal code as the basis of law, including the creation of the Egyptian Mixed Courts (replacing the Consular Courts for foreigners) in 1875. I first illustrated an example of this commemorative medal in my post of 27 May, 2022 showing a Horovitz-made Mixed Court badge on a Facebook page of Charmy Photographic. Owain identified the badge and provided an illustration of it in his post on this thread of 28 May, 2022. The photos below are from a 13 February, 2024 auction (#61371, Lot 25230) by Heritage Auctions (https://coins.ha.com/itm/egypt/egypt-fuad-i-gilt-silver-judicial-justice-50th-anniversary-of-the-national-court-medal-1933-dated-unc-/a/61371-25230.s?type=DA-DMC-SixBid-WorldCoins-61371-02122024). Photos, and the description, from this auction also are archived on sixbid.com website (https://www.sixbid.com/en/heritage-auctions-inc/11548/egypt/10066052/fuad-i-gilt-silver-judicial-justice?term&orderCol=lot_number&orderDirection=asc&priceFrom&displayMode=large&auctionSessions=&sidebarIsSticky=false). All three of these images are copyrighted by Heritage Auctions (©2023 Heritage Auctions). Owain brought this auction to my notice, and deserves credit for seeing this offering of an uncommon medal. High-resolution image of the obverse of this medal commemorating 50 years of the Indigenous Courts 1883-1933. In his identification of they medal, Owain felt that the bust of King Fuad 1 represented the obverse. The additional illustration of this medal I reported and illustrated in my post of 31 May, 2022 on this thread (from from pg 337 of Volume 2 of the 1937 publication of the civil codes: I Al-Kitab al-dhahabi l’il-mahakim al-ahliya, 1883-1933. Al-Matba’a al-Amiriyya bu Bulaq, The Golden Book of Civil Courts 1883-1933, published by the Government press [Amiri Press] in Bulaq) shows the pin on the ribbon visible on the face with Fuad's bust. The ribbon in the first illustration I posted of this with the Mixed District Courts badge shows no pin on the face with the royal coat-of-arms with t he inscription on either side reading "50th Anniversary of the National (Indigenous) Court"scales of justice, bracketed by the dates 1883-1933, and the motto "Just is the Foundation of Kingship/Governance". These two Heritage Auctions photos also help identify the obverse and reverse of this medal. Reverse of the 50th Anniversary Commemorative medal celebrating 50 years of the Indigenous Courts. As in the publication page shown in my post of 31 May 2022 on this thread, This shows the pin on the ribbon on the face with the bust of King Fuad I. The Heritage Auctions listing identifies the diameter as 42 mm and the weight as 49.24 g. The auction listing identifies the material as gilt silver, however it seems unlikely these medals were gilt and are probably silver with the green enamel. No manufacturer of this commemorative medal has been identified in what literature I have been able to consult. The Heritage Auctions listing included a photo of the case lid for this medal (but this illustration is not on the Sixbid Archive of this listing). The lid has the cipher for Sultan Ahmad of Egypt that he used between 1917-1922. Afterwards, he became King Fuad I following the British announcement of "semi-independence" of Egypt from the Ottoman Empire but under continued practices essentially identical to the "protectorship" of Britain from 1882-1922.
    3. The staff member from my office was unable to meet with Mandy Hanafy. There are 2 current options. We can wait until October, and my staff member will be back in Cairo and get 4 books for $90 each. Or, I can order now and have 4 copies shipped to the US for $100 each. One person is willing to pay $100 and get a copy soon (with a caveat about better packaging than the eBay seller employed). Please let me know if anyone else interested in a copy has a preference.
    4. Howdy Jan, Congratulations on getting this breast star! These are the 3 Egyptian assay hallmarks. The leftmost is the mark of the Cairo Assay Office purity mark for silver = 900 silver (90%); the center mark is a cat, indicating Egyptian-made silver (used between 1916-1946); the final mark on the right is a date hallmark, "B" = an assay date of 1927-1928.
    5. I am arranging the purchase of 4 copies of Magdy Hanafy's books. One of my staff members is in Cairo until this Friday. I still do not know the precise discount of the book.
    6. Magdy Hanafy has not yet identified a price to me, it depends on how many books are purchased. I have a colleague in Cairo now who is willing to carry a few books home. That also would reduce the price per book. I am checking when she returns to the US.
    7. Howdy All, Magdy Hanafy just contacted me. He has not indicated the price of the book through him, but I will contact him tomorrow. I know that many of you who are interested in the volume have have already purchased them through Shebabcoin on eBay. If anyone still would be interested in trying to put in an order with the author, please let me know, and I will check back with you once I know the price. Cheers, Rusty
    8. Owain is of course completely correct, it is all the proper configuration. If the seller provides a measurement, 70 mm diameter is a 2nd Class breast star and 80 mm is a 1st Class breast star. A 2nd class neck badge & breast star (without the ribbon for the neck badge) with attribution to a specific individual sold in 2021 for 4500 Euros. a 1st Class breast star without the sash badge, sash, or case, ands with enamel damage to one arm, was estimated to fetch 500-800 GBP in March 2023.
    9. Interestingly (although depressing), a badge like the one I recently illustrated in my post here of 16 January, 2024 that was offered by a jeweler in Cairo, Egypt was just sold at a 16 December, 2023 auction (Lot 0165) by Antique Arena Inc. in Brooklyn, NY. The listing is archived on the liveauctioneers website (https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/166660205_antique-egyptian-suez-canal-grand-insignia-of-a-judge). High-resolution photos were included in that listing, identifying this as an “Antique Egyptian Suez Canal Grand Insignia of a Judge”. Its’ materials are stated to be silver and vermeil. The dimensions are given as approximately 3 7/8 x 2 3/4 in (98.425 x 69.85 mm) and it weighs 112 g. The size of this badge is too small compared with the sizes of Froment-Meurice badges and the similarly larger sizes of badges made by all other makers as well (Rudolf Stobbe, Wolf Horovitz, Zivy Frères & Cie., D. Ialanos, A. de Leo & A. Kassandrinos, and including badges representing 4 additional as yet unidentified manufacturers). Most authentic badges range between 112-118 mm in height and 85-90 mm in width. The smaller size of the Antique Arena example also results in the much lighter weight of this badge. All badges for which weights have been published in auction descriptions range between 141.76 to 173.05 g, with a single heavier outlier of a Zivy Frères vermeil badge at 290 g. I have included below 3 photos that show the supposed “FROMENT-MEURICE” maker’s mark on the reverse of the Antique Arena badge that also is anomalous. In my previous 16 January post I suggested the rayed embellishment on that badge might be original. However, I obviously did not look at the lack of rivets in the photo provided, and maybe the angle makes it less clear that the proportions of the maker's name to the overall badge size were odd. The measurements in the Antique Arena description and the photographs show this is a solid cast piece lacking the 3-part construction seen on all other Mixed Courts badges. There are many examples of the workmanship of Maison Froment-Meurice who originally designed this insignia for the Mixed Courts. They represent the highest quality examples of these badges. As with the piece I illustrated above in my post of 16 January, the execution of all aspects of this Antique Arena badge is quite odd and glaringly inconsistent compared with any other bonafide examples of the Mixed Courts badges by Froment-Meurice or any other manufacturer. The attribution to Maison Froment-Meurice is impossible because of the large number of anomalous design and execution differences compared with the many online images of unquestionable examples of that maker’s work. These images are of higher quality than those I received from Egypt and allow comparisons of the details of this faked badge with other examples on this thread. The appearance of this example and that from Egypt makes me suspect recent work by someone getting at least of a few of these poor copies onto the market. Above is a high-resolution image of the obverse of the Antique Arena badge showing clearly the many anomalous design elements and workmanship of this badges. The image can be zoomed for more unpleasant surprises. The obverse of this badge exhibits many casting defects such as pinholes, misruns (i.e., the medial cord on the left tassel attachment to the mantle corner, and the cord on the medial tassel on the right corner), flash, and vein defects, unambiguously indicating it is not struck. The inconsistencies in design and workmanship compared with real Froment-Meurice made regalia that I noted in my 16 January 20204 post are much more evident in this high-resolution image. As I do not believe this badge is authentic, I am uninterested in cataloguing the design and manufacturing anomalies. I no longer think the central tablet may be original, but the calligraphy is copied from an uncommon form seen on 5 unmarked badges shown in this thread that are not identified yet with any manufacturer. I will confirm that there is no texturing indicating fur on the interior of the mantle, the ermine tails are mere lozenge suggestions, the “fringe” on the mantle is only executed as texture dots (as are the tassels) rather than as detailed yarns, the frame around the central tablet is unevenly and poorly executed, and the "tugra" inside the Order of Medjidie element is a shapeless excrescence. Above are two high-resolution photos of the reverse of the Antique Arena badge that also shows several aspects of the workmanship that indicates this is not an authentic Froment-Meurice badge. One of the most glaring anomalies is the proportion of the “FROMENT-MEURICE” mark on the reverse to the overall badge size. This mark is clearly too large compared with the proportions of the maker’s marks on genuine Froment-Meurice badges. Note the lack of rivets that hold the 3-part construction in place on authentic FM badges, and used by all other makers. Additionally, small defects (blowholes, pinholes, veins, and possibly flash) can be seen that also indicate this badge was cast. While a cast Mixed Courts badge I came across online made me initially suspect it was a more recent copy, the appearance of a second with its case marked with the manufacturer made me change my mind that it was likely the work of a manufacturer (Union de Graveurs, D. Ialanos, A. de Leo & A. Kassandrinos, Alexandria) producing a more economical badge for judges and other court officials (see my post of 3 February, 2022). Those 2 cast badges do exhibit rivets holding the 3-piece construction together, and a higher level of craftsmanship than is evident on the Antique Arena badge. In this case, the attempt to mark a cast badge as the work of Froment-Meurice with such glaring design inconsistencies is clearly just fraud. For comparison within this post, above are high-resolution images of the obverse and reverse of an authentic Émile Froment-Meurice badge. This example is from a 19 June, 2022 auction by Helios Auctions (Auction #33). This is a cropped version of the copyrighted image on the invaluable.com website (https://www.invaluable.com/auction-lot/a-rare-ottoman-empire-egypt-judges-badge-by-frome-2d040dba00, ©Invaluable LLC.), the listing is also archived on the liveauctioneers.com website (https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/130336279_a-rare-ottoman-empire-egypt-judge-s-badge-by-froment-meurice). I previously illustrated and described this badge in my post on this thread of 19 June, 2022. Close-up of the stamped lettering of the alleged “FROMENT-MEURICE” maker’s mark on the Antique Arena badge. This shows forms of the letters that are much less carefully executed than those punched on genuine badges from that atelier. It is common for there to be variability in punches as they wear out and new ones are made, so that maker’s marks will show slight differences. However, this appears to be an example of a less carefully made punch that has thicker letters and greater crowding of several letters than seen on genuine examples. In addition to many visible blowholes and pinholes, this photo shows vein defects from casting, running downward from between the “EU”, and between the “CE” in “MEURICE”. Also note the parallel scratches in the margins of the recessed panel, possibly representing removal of flash or to make this piece appear more worn (also visible in the other 2 images of the reverse of the Antique Arena badge shown above). Above is a high-resolution image of the reverse of the badge from the 19 June, 2022 auction by Helios Auctions showing the "FROMENT-MEURICE" maker's mark on a genuine badge. This image can be zoomed for comparison with the Antique Arena badge's reverse. The letters are crisper and less crowded than shown on the Antique Arena example. Above is another example of an authentic Froment-Meurice mark, showing normal variation representing different wear on punches and imperfect or idiosyncratic strikes. (From an unsold example that has been offered on eBay for many years for a very high price and with some damage to the enamel on the central tablet inscription: https://www.ebay.com/itm/324752955655). Above is an alternate form of the maker’s mark on a genuine Froment-Meurice badge. Several Badges exhibit a lower placement of the “FROMENT-MEURICE” mark below the two large rivets and the diamond-shaped symbol with the Froment-Meurice name and a central rose. From a badge attributed to a Greek official (judge?) with the Mixed Courts, Apostolo N. Gennaropolou, from an archived listing on the WorthPoint website of a 2014 eBay offering (https://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/ottoman-empire-egypt-khedivate-judges-982926374).
    10. Thanks for the expert review Owain! I'm still trying to get a response from the author to see about any other source for this volume besides eBay.
    11. Here is an English language news story about the announcement, almost all of this is already in Chris's post: https://www.elasemawelnas.com/egypt/a-draft-law-to-create-the-great-builder-medal-in-egypt-what-are-its-details-and-financial-rewards/
    12. I recently saw that the Smithsonian National Museum of American History in the US has completed conservation efforts on the 1st Class Grand Cordon set of the Order of Ismail in their collection. I illustrated this set in the first 8 photos of my post of 19 November, 2022. Among the many good things about this, the sash has been removed from its formerly stapled position on what was likely non-acid free backing. This was part of a general conservation effort made for all the Grand Cross Orders in the Museum collection (Work and Industry: National Numismatic Collection, Grand Cross Orders of Knighthood), removing staples from all of the sashes that had been so rudely prepared previously. The above 3 images are the moderate-resolution photos on the new NMAH website listing of this holding (https://americanhistory.si.edu/collections/nmah_963004). These images can be enlarged for some additional details, however, those below are much higher-resolution. All images in this post can be used for personal research, but not for publication without permission of the NMAH (©National Museum of American History). During the photographic documentation of these objects, the NMAH staff gave the items slightly new catalogue numbers. 67.94487a identifies the sash and sash badge and 67.94487b is assigned to the breast star. As noted in my original 19 November, 2022 post, the assay date hallmarks on both the sash badge and breast star are “A” for 1925-1926. Currently, the recipient of this award is still unknown. Below are the high-resolution photos I was just sent from the NMAH staff. They provide much greater detail than the above photos. These images may be used for personal research, but again not for any publications or commercial use. High-resolution image of the NMAH sash & sash badge (Catalogue number 67.94487a) and breast star (Catalogue numbers 67.94487b). This image can be zoomed for significantly greater detail than the first illustration in this post. High-resolution image of the NMAH sash & sash badge (Catalogue number 67.94487a) showing the obverse of the sash badge. High-resolution image of the NMAH sash & sash badge (Catalogue number 67.94487a) showing the reverse of the sash badge. This image can be zoomed to see the 3 Egyptian gold hallmarks including the "A" assay date mark. High-resolution image of the obverse of the NMAH breast star (Catalogue number 67.94487b). This can be zoomed for greater detail. This image is higher-resolution (and has better lighting) than the obverse photo of this badge shown as the 1st photo in my post of 19 November, 2022. Note that after the recent curation efforts, whatever the reddish material is around the central boss with the "Ismail" inscription has not been cleaned off. High-resolution image of the reverse of the NMAH breast star (Catalogue number 67.94487b). This can be zoomed for greater detail. This photo is higher-resolution than the obverse illustration of this breast star shown in the 2nd and 3rd images in my post of 19 November, 2022. The lighting and resolution does not show clearly the date hallmark on either the silver embellishment (on the central ray of the embellishment in the ~4:00 position) or the gold date hallmark on the left upper arm (in the ~ 9:30 position). The gold date hallmark "A" is clearly shown in the close-up image provided by the NMAH staff photographer as the 4th image in my post of 19 November, 2023.
    13. Howdy Chris, I have written the author, Magdy Hanafy, asking about any better price than the eBay source. I have not heard back from him, he may not read English. I have someone in my office who is going to Cairo in March and has expressed a willingness to bring home a few of these oversized/heavy volumes. However, I do not yet have an alternative source. Is there anything you would particularly like to see that I could scan for you? Cheers, Rusty
    14. I was recently contacted about an alleged Mixed Courts badge offered for sale to a customer visiting Cairo. I do not wish to name the shop as the owner has been very professional in addressing my concerns about the authenticity of this particular badge. The badge illustrated in low-resolution images below appears to me to be a chimera of a possible original Froment-Meurice rayed embellishment, a highly unusual central component with the mantle design element, and possibly an original central calligraphic tablet from one of the 4 unidentified manufacturers of these badges. Low-resolution image of the obverse of this problematic badge. Although it is hard to see many details of this badge, several anomalies are readily apparent in the mantle component. The most obvious design oddity is the very parallel depiction of the folds in the superior portion of the mantle extending from the inferior margin of the crown laterally to the corners tied with tasseled cords. These are 4 parallel folds on each side, quite unlike the more irregular fabric folds seen on this portion of the mantle drapery even in the least detailed versions of these badges. Also note that the tassels on the right corner are approximately the same length, with the lateral tassel resting just a little lower than the medial tassel. All Froment-Meurice, Stobbe, Horowitz (except the one very odd "pin" form inspired by the Mixed Courts badge shown most recently in 2 examples shown in my 7 April , 2022 post on this thread), the one example by D. Ialanos, A. de Leon, & A. Kassandinos of Alexandria, and all the unmarked badges and those by unknown manufacturers have the rightmost lateral tassel situated slightly above the right medial tassel. The only exception are the badges made by Zivy Fréres & Cie where they also are the same length. Additionally, the thick frame around the central calligraphic tablet is not present on any other Mixed Courts badges by any maker. Quite noticeably, it appears there is no texturing of the interior of the mantle that is designed to indicate fur, with some ermine tails placed on the interior as well. Although the photo is not good enough resolution to see the background in detail, there is no indiction of any texturing. Additionally only 7 ermine tails are present, all in the lower portion of the mantle interior lateral to the proximal branch ends of the oak and laurel branches, and around the Order of Medjidie emblem. No ermine tails are present in other portions of the mantle, as are seen in all other Mixed Courts badge examples. Although difficult to compare details about these ermine tails, even in these photos they appear quite different, like stylized cylinders with apparent small knobs on each, most at the inferior end and some at the superior ends of each tail. Another view of the obverse of this same badge. unfortunately also a low-resolution photo. The form of the calligraphy has a distinctive variations in the form of the the script of the uppermost siin that is uniquely configured on this and 3 other examples I illustrated as the 24th-27 photos in my post of 6 September, 2021 on this thread. It is likely that this is an authentic central tablet from another of these unmarked and currently unknown manufacturers of Mixed Courts badges. Again, note the anomalous thick frame around the central tablet. If this image is zoomed, there may be some visibility of the thin outline of the tablet as seen on all other badge, The uncommon form of the calligraphy makes me suspect this is more likely an original component than one copied from other badges (where different calligraphy is much more frequently seen than this minor variant with the unusual form of the uppermost siin character). Although slightly better visible in the previous photo, several design details are less skillful crafted and detailed on the mantle element of this badge. The tughra in the Order of Medjidie looks particularly small and anemic, and comparisons of the oak and laurel leaves and the distal ends of the tugs also show much less detailed execution than most examples. This mantle component is distinctly different and less intricately executed than even on the least detailed authentic badges' workmanship: the 2 examples of badges made by Zivy Fréres & Cie. (shown in my posts of 24 April, 2019, and 22 February, 2023 on this thread) and the 2 cast versions made by D. Ialanos, A. de Leo, & A. Kassandrinos (shown in my post of 3 February, 2022). Low-resolution image of the reverse of this same badge. The rayed embellishment marked with the Froment-Meurice name may be a genuine component. However, no aspects of the mantle element match the workmanship of any other Froment=Meurice badges. The form of the calligraphy on the central tablet also is unlike that seen on any marked or suspected Froment-Meurice badges. Additionally, the workmanship associated with the body of the authentic badges with this same calligraphic version of their tablets also is completely unlike any example that can reasonably be attributed to Froment-Meurice. This combination of the 3 pieces that form this badge shows no conformation with any known single maker. As noted, the mantle element is dissimilar to all other badge examples, including those that are among the 4 unidentified manufacturers. It is the anomalous individual elements that make me suspect this represents a modern chimera assembly from three unassociated pieces.
    15. I have found a couple photographs of storefronts of Rudolf Stobbe (one of the manufacturers of Mixed Court badges) that I just encountered on the Great Egypt website (https://www.greategypt.org/2023/05/rudolf-stobbe.html). The short descriptive text associated with these two photos identifies Rudolf Stobbe as a native of Graudenz, at the time a province of Prussia (following WWII it became part of Poland). Stobbe studied in important jewelry workshops in Berlin, Paris, and Vienna and emigrated to Egypt in approximately 1880 at the age of 28. Much of his early jewelry copied Ancient Egyptian motifs, principally in gold and precious stones. He eventually developed a reputation for himself, and created his own modern works in gold, silver, and stones. Like most bijouterie in Egypt, Stobbe also imported European-made watches for sale at his storefronts (see the following description from a 16 May, 2011 sale by Christie's of a rare A. Lange & Söhne minute repeating clock watch sold to R. Stobbe in Alexandria, Egypt, on 27 April 1911 for the amount of 2210 marks, which was engraved in Arabic on the dial to the client Ahmed Kheir Bashi: https://www.christies.com/en/lot/lot-5431070). This photograph is identified as: "Rudolf Stobbe's premises in Alexandria". This should be the 29 rue Chérif Pasha, Alexandria address. Note the storefront sign that identifies the founding date of Maison Stobbe as 1885. This locations was Stobbe's first workshop in Egypt. The above image is captioned on the Great Egypt website as: "The Premise of Rudolf Stobbe, Opera Square, Cairo". The text associated with this entry in Great Egypt states that the Cairo workshop at the Place de l'Opéra and storefront was opened in 1904. That source also identifies Stobbe as employing "30 specialists and eight native workmen". Apparently this location was managed by a Mr. Sheffield. The individual in the doorway may be Rudolf Stobbe (although the portrait below shows him with less head hair) or perhaps Mr. Sheffield Undated portrait photo of Rudolf Stobbe, also from the Great Egypt website (https://www.greategypt.org). This portrait comes from an unspecified 1909 report on European and Egyptian businesses and their founders in Egypt.
    16. Howdy EJ, thanks for the question about documentation. Unfortunately no, and no footnotes or general references to track the sources. Below is the material on Lattes in: Magdy Hanafy, 2023. Encyclopedia of Egyptian Protocol: Collars, Orders and Medals 1914-1953. Friends Group for Philately and Numismatics, Cairo. pp. 342-343. This small portion of the recent Hanafy volume is reproduced solely for research purposes. This is probably a copyrighted work. Below is the Hanafy discussion of the Bichay family: Magdy Hanafy, 2023. Encyclopedia of Egyptian Protocol: Collars, Orders and Medals 1914-1953. Friends Group for Philately and Numismatics, Cairo. pp. 342-343, again for research purposes only. .
    17. I am illustrating here a miniature Order of the Nile that resembles 5 other examples shown on this thread. This image comes from an 8 December, 2021 auction by Noonans Mayfair, Lot 302 (https://www.noonans.co.uk/auctions/archive/lot-archive/results/410985/?keywords=Egypt&discipline=&category=&date_on=8+December+2021&date_start=&date_end=&lot_no=302). This set of 5 miniatures is identified as having been awarded to Captain W. P. “Cocky” Cockburn. A lower resolution version of this photograph is archived on the Invaluable website (https://www.invaluable.com/auction-lot/miniature-medals-302-c-69f4944874?objectID=166703199&algIndex=undefined&queryID=df8282935f00948cc6587dbe3785da0b). This particular photo is the highest-resolution photo I have found online for miniature Order of the Nile compared with the other 5 similar examples, providing excellent detail of the obverse of the workmanship of this mini. High resolution photo of the complete set on miniature medals offered on 8 December, 2021 auction by Noonans Mayfair, Lot 302. Both the Noonans Mayfair and the invaluable listings identify Captain W. P. Cockburn as “a ‘Special List’ officer who served under Colonel Cyril Wilson, the British Representative at the Jeddah Consulate; operating under the auspices of the Arab Bureau at Cairo”. The auction description includes both the names of Cpt. Cockburn’ s awards and the dates of their notices published in the London Gazette Supplements. The set includes (L-R): O.B.E. (Military, Officer’s 1st type breast badge London Gazette 3 June 1919, “For services rendered during the war”, He had previously been awarded the M.B.E., London Gazette 18 November 1918, “For distinguished service in connection with military operations in Egypt”); British War and Victory Medals, M.I.D. London Gazette 17 September 1917, 7 October 1918 [Egypt], and 24 March 1919 [Mesopotamia], and the Egyptian Order of the Nile, London Gazette 4 April 1918. The full-size awards included cases and award documents for Capt. Cockburn. Very high resolution image of the miniature Order of the Nile miniature of Captain W. P. Cockburn. This form of an Order of the resembles 5 other Nile minis illustrated on this thread. It is similar to Owain's medal shown in the photo he posted on 11 December, 2017 (obverse shown in the upper row far R). Owain's esxample shows a piercing of the crown suspension element just above the swivel where the body of the medal attaches to the crown that is not evident on the Noonans Mayfair example. Owain illustrated the reverse of this same mini in the 1st photo of his post of 12 December, 2017 (upper row far R). The obverse of another similar Order of the Nile miniature is shown in the 2nd photo of my post of 14 February, 2018, from a past eBay offering. This example does not have the deep and complete separation of each ray of the embellishment and the crown lacks the markings of the "interior" of the crown, has slightly different decorations of the inferior band of the crown, and has more complete perforations between the arches. The reverse of that mini is shown in the second image of that same post. A comparable mini is illustrated in my post of 22 July, 2018 of a Spink & Son auction (Lot 743) archived on the Saleroom website as the Order of the Nile on the right. This mini has an essentially identical crown, but the most central portion of the rayed embellishment represents a solid facetted ring around the central five-pointed star. A low-resolution image of another similar Order of the Nile mini is shown in the 3 composite images (showing the medals in their case on the L; the obverse in the center; and reverse on the right side image) from an acsearch auction archive site that are the first illustration in my post of 14 January, 2019. Although difficult to distinguish, the crown appears quite similar, and the central portion of the rayed embellishment also exhibits some solid portion near the center and almost lobed distal portions of each separate ray. A somewhat similar miniature Order of the Nile is shown in 2 sequential posts of min on this thread: first that of 27 September, 2022 and 11 November, 2022 (a higher-resolution image of this medal that can be zoomed for better detail). This example with 3 broken superior rays exhibits much less complete separation of each ray in the embellishment. It also has some differences in the decoration and execution of the crown suspension element. Most notably, there is no piercing of the spaces between the crown's arches, lack of a depiction of the crown "interior, and more floral that leaf-like decorations (analogous to the fleur0-de0lys of European crowns) running below the arches.
    18. In the last few weeks I came across this recent publication: Magdy Hanafy, 2023. Encyclopedia of Egyptian Protocol: Collars, Orders and Medals 1914-1953. Friends Group for Philately and Numismatics, Cairo. ISBN: 918-977-94-4509-0, 141 pages. It is a PUR binding, and I do fear it may begin to split after use and especially any scanning on a platen. It appears that this was just published in December, 2023. This quite comprehensive oversize volume has beautiful photos of all Royal Egyptian Orders and Medals during the Sultanate through the early Republic period. There are many additional features such as information on the Royal Divan, award documents, cases, manufacturers, hallmarking, military, and civilian uniforms, etc. The text is in both Arabic and English. I have only found the book available on eBay (a Cairo seller: https://www.ebay.com/itm/276220958858?hash=item40500d588a:g:df0AAOSwCldlfge3&amdata=enc%3AAQAIAAABEBiDj6p5NuqkOuKGlvrzSFu2DQSevGynroouiveg0Y1fQExACybpg%2FaYxreP0tRGI49Wu3St738o3OLwImqyQTI4fkeJFDsdcA%2BhH8%2FI%2FBcy25HUslh05TgK1xecpe7nE46LAzJsCSx%2BW9idIzXXE36ZcnQhnLR%2BeXSq4oBvFEvzkrf7WPaOkgO%2FC%2FDP1dMTjJbS5z8XN56pxhfBG91nLj3G0dRaneuiQPOB5t8URHLHXfi%2FyyturrCMsEqGlPPtu9QdssbBuAIavvwzrQ0q0iSxFE0KpOBA%2BiCY8Q271WJjs1Gcvn4X2IfQxzKk8IOwEh2bexp7seEWSWIo%2BtGb2vRqkCpNMEyBNJnLv9dWi8MY|tkp%3ABk9SR9zQ8N6aYw, currently has ~10 new copies for US$ 150, plus taxes and shipping). I have contacted the author to see whether there is a more economical price through another venue and where else the book can be purchased. The author has principally published on Egyptian currency, coins, and tokens, but this is a comprehensive and very useful research volume on Egyptian Orders and Medals. Front cover of M. Hanafy 2023, English. “Back” cover of M. Hanafy 2023, Arabic. Table of Contents of Hanafy, 2023.
    19. Below is an illustration from the recently published Magdy Hanafy, 2023. Encyclopedia of Egyptian Protocol: Collars, Orders and Medals 1914-1953. Friends Group for Philately and Numismatics, Cairo. ISBN: 918-977-94-4509-0, page 122. I am not going to scan all the relevant images and data in this volume, but this photo of the component elements of the Order of Ismail adds some good information to this thread. Hanafi also provides some information on J. Lattes (pp.342-343) and the Bichay family (pp. 344-347). He confirms that J. Lattes' first name was Job and that he and his brothers were Italian (M. M. Lattes and Bonayoto Lattes). Hanafi identifies the date they opened their business in Geneva as 1863. This contrasts with the date of 1860 on the front page of J. Lattes folding advertising card shown in 2 examples I first illustrated on this thread as the 1st photo in my post of 24 April, 2019 and in the 1st photo of my post of 4 March, 2020 (and in a few other posts discussing Lattes). He gives a date of 1883 for the founding of the Cairo shop, run by J. Lattes. He notes that "J. Lattes", was the shortened name used at an unspecified date after the early period of the Cairo business. Hanafi states that additional shops were opened in other areas of Egypt, but those locations are not identified. He gives a death date for Lattes as ca. 1930 (pg. 344). Although one auction listing claimed that J. Lattes was awarded an unspecified class of the Order of the Nile, Hanafi makes no mention of such an honor. Hanafi writes that Tewfik Bichay (Tewfiq Bishay) started working at Maison Lattes at the age of 18 and took over the atelier after Lattes' death. Bichay died in 1948 and his sons Fahmy, Francis, and Sadeq took over the workshop. Pieces were principally marked with Fahmy Bichay's name. Francis died in 1956. Fahmy emigrated to Canada in 1962. Hanafi states that Fahmy Tewfiq Bichay retired from active work by the mid 1980s and died in 2003. In 1986 the principal workshop at 40 Talaat Harb St., Cairo was taken over by Shawki Shehata Ishaq but remained under Tewfik Bichay's name to the present day. Both Fahmy and Francis were awarded the 3rd Class Order of Industry and Commerce on 6 May, 1951.
    20. I recently came across a 16 March, 2023 auction by Philip Serrell offering of a 1st Class Grand Cordon Order of Ismail breast star. The auction listing is curated on the salesroom website (https://www.the-saleroom.com/en-gb/auction-catalogues/philip-serrell/catalogue-id-srph10104/lot-30434248-c001-4b50-8531-afc0010ccb65). The breast star is unassociated with any sash badge, sash, or case and is not attributed to any identified recipient. The photos of the breast star are only low-moderate resolution and the star has some enamel damage. Although damaged, the missing piece of blue enamel on one of the star arms shows a construction detail of the depth of the struck depression holding the enamel (champlevé), that is not evident on other examples. Low-resolution photo of the 1st Class Order of Ismail breast star. The star is oriented incorrectly, the name Ismail and the central panel of the wreath indicate that the superior star arm is oriented toward the 7:00 position. The arm of the star with the damaged enamel should be oriented in the 5:00 position. This is a Lattes-made breast star, and the wreath configuration is that normally found on these pieces. The description gives the diameter of the star as approximately 8 cm and identifies its weight as 114.2 g. It identifies that there is enamel damage to one of the distal star arms (as is clear in the photo) and notes “minor damage to the green enamel”. The photos are not good enough resolution to see the damage to the enamel of the wreath. Close-up photo of the damaged enamel of the arm that in correct orientation should be in the 5:00 position. Although a low-resolution image, it shows quite well the shallow depression (champlevé) of the star arm design that holds the blue enamel. This image also shows clearly (despite the low-resolution) the most common form of the engraving of the gold floral elements on the star arms. I have not seen photos of another example that shows the shallow depth of the champlevé as this photo does. Low-resolution photo of the central boss with the name “Ismail” and the laurel wreath element. The star is oriented with a slight rotation to the upper left. As noted, the description states there is minor damage to the green enamel (of the wreath). However, the resolution of this photo is not good enough to tell where that damage is on this wreath. Is it some of the areas that show up as gray in this image (I.e., at the far right in the first panel to the right of the inferior panel of the wreath or on the user left wreath panel?). Reverse of the Philip Serrall 1st Class Order of Ismail breast star. With the LATTES name correctly oriented, this is the correct orientation of the star. The 3 Egyptian silver hallmarks are visible on the central longer ray of the rightmost portion of the reverse of the embellishment. The Egyptian gold hallmarks are visible on the reverse of the gold star arm on the lower left (representing the arm in the 5:00 position on the obverse). This photo is not high enough resolution to read either of the date hallmarks. No hallmarks are visible on the tunic pin of this example. Close-up image of the LATTES name on the reverse of the central boss. Close-up of the reverse of this 1st Class Order of Ismail showing the placement of the 3 Egyptian gold hallmarks. The photo is not high-enough resolution to read the date hallmark (furthest to the viewers right), which also appears to have a light or incomplete punch.
    21. Below is a very crudely made miniature Order of the Nile from a current eBay offering (https://www.ebay.com/itm/125817753727?hash=item1d4b52907f:g:-XUAAOSwsR1kDmB6&amdata=enc%3AAQAIAAAA4HQq9Tc2%2B4s3YKb0BCagrDjglPCcRj0yFHFvVQpO0dOunFNU0%2FtpZGLHq4lDbXFORav14Paqto45%2ByCQVg1uhTYNeqHDaHMX6ThF5GS35YW2XhorxAK9Z1BF%2BKd5QBP%2FdbkAPwniMoUfv2EVzBh8ADdVEBfxu6v1SUnJAVEUPQrCWYGcwHgA%2BedPcom6UOOeFiPlCpHyrV0%2FhKX38ngQDYEJDbkVhq7MEza%2FpwrJp4sVKUTsGQ5BgDNvNYBQ4datstiAIPKbXtZhN%2BNKZaY81eem4PgtbNnIPe9d36tFnF%2BI|tkp%3ABk9SR47oqYKKYw). No information is provided in the written description. Above is a moderate-resolution image of the obverse of this current eBay example of a miniature Order of the Nile. This is a 3rd Class mini as indicated by the rosette with a lack of any galon. It is evident that the workmanship is quite rudimentary. The form of the attachment of the rayed embellishment to the crown suspension element is perhaps the most simple form shown on any of the miniature Order of the Nile examples in this thread. The calligraphy of the central boss also is very crude, resembling that shown in a couple of Nile minis on this thread: the 1st photo in my post of 2 April, 2018; and especially in the 8th photo of my post of 2 October, 2018 that presents a clear image of the inscription. Obviously, the obverse face of the ribbon has experienced significant fading. A very slightly higher-resolution close-up image of this same miniature Order of the Nile from eBay. Reverse of this same eBay miniature 3rd Class Order of the Nile miniature. No maker's mark is visible on the reverse. The detailed reverse of the crown suspension device is quite unusual. Only one other example of an Order of the Nile mini illustrated on this tread shows full detailing of the reverse of crown (2nd photo in my post of 11 November, 2022), all other examples shown on this thread exhibit a plain reverse of the crown suspension device.
    22. Could this be one of the Gebrüder Reiner maker's marks from Krumbach, Bayern (1910-present)? These illustrations are not a close match, but there are similarities, perhaps a pre-1914 version would be useful; to compare? Above is an illustration from www.925-1000.com Online Encyclopedia of Silver Marks, Hallmarks, and Makers’ Marks that includes 2 examples of Gebrüder Reiner maker's marks, one with a partial circle around the letters "G" and "R". The illustrated marks are identified as post 1914, no previous maker's marks are shown in this online photographic archive. I have not seen many marks with the post 1888 crown almost on top of the maker's mark (from: https://www.925-1000.com/Fgerman_marks_a1884_8.html).
    23. I recently came across low-resolution photos of a 2nd Class Grand Officer Order of Ismail archived on Colnect.com (https://colnect.com/en/medals/medal/6619-Order_of_Ismail_Grandofficer_2nd_Class-General_Issues-Egypt). The set is attributed to a Belgian individual on the occasion of King Fuad’s trip to Belgium in 1927. The Colnect description gives the dimensions of the neck badge as 62 x 85 mm, and the diameter of the breast star as 70 mm. The associated attribution appears to confound two different examples of 2nd Class Orders of Ismail. I am not illustrating the low-resolution Colnect photos as I found better-quality images of these same photos from the 2021 auction archived by Jean Elsen & ses Fils, shown and discussed below. The Colnect description includes the confusing statement: “…with awarding document, 395 x 253 mm, to the King’s Italian Doctor and at the end of 1927 to Maurice Damoiseau (sic.), governor of the province of Hainaut on the occasion of King Fouad's official visit to Belgium.” It initially appeared to me that the mention of the award brevet and Italian doctor to King Fuad probably referred to an unfortunately damaged and badly rotated breast star example that I have previously illustrated on 14, Nov 2017 in its case, with its award brevet and envelope; as the photo in my post of 11 January, 2019 looking at hallmarks, in the 2nd-to-last photo (23rd photo) in my post of 19 October, 2019; and shown in a higher-resolution image of breast star as the 6th photo in my post of 31 January, 2021, all on this thread (I also have illustrated the Dr. Quirico breast star below in this post). I thought perhaps someone had repaired the poor condition of this breast star that had been awarded to Dr. Giovanni Quirico. However, that breast star has significant damage to the blue enamel on three of the arms of the star that are not visible in the Jean Elsen & see Fils better-quality photos of this set (described below). It seems that Colnect has jumbled two attributions. This breast star cannot be that awarded to Dr. Giovanni Quirico, despite the description statement suggesting it was given to the King’s Italian physician. The attribution to Maurice Damoiseaux is not supported by other documentation, but is the more likely of the two alleged awardee identifications. Note below that a 3rd Class, Commander Order of Léopold, Civil, was offered in the same Jean Elsen & ses Fils auction of 11 September, 2021 (Auction 148, Lot 1508) as this Order of Ismail attributed to Damoiseaux. Obverse and reveres of the 2nd Class Grand Officer Class Order of Ismail from the Jean Elsen & ses Fils 11 September, 2021 auction listing (higher resolution that the Colnect version). Obverse and reverese of the 2nd Class Order of Ismail breast star of this set, illustrated on the Jean Elsen & ses Fils 2021 auction listing (higher resolution that the Colnect version). This same set of the Grand Officer Order of Ismail was offered on the Jean Elsen & ses Fils website and is illustrated with higher-resolution images of the neck badge and breast star than the Colnect photos (https://elsen.bidinside.com/en/lot/8515/egypte-ordre-dtismahl-ensemble-de-2e-/). The above moderate-resolution illustrations show the neck badge and breast star well enough to see the design characteristics of the obverse and hallmarks on the reverse. These images can be enlarged slightly for some additional details. This comes from an 11 September, 2021 auction (Auction 148, Lot 1542). The wreaths on both the neck badge and breast star are of the normal J. Lattes pattern and workmanship. The engraving of the gold floral elements on the neck badge exhibit two lateral marks on each side of the terminal blossom and one central mark accenting the longer central petal. The two middle flowers show three lateral marks in each flower and a single engraving mark accenting the gap between the central petals and the longer lateral petal. The engraving on the floral elements of the arms of the breast star show the same common execution of these marks as on the neck badge. The Jean Elsen & ses Fils website description identifies the awardee as Maurice Damoiseaux (Maurice Louis François Damoiseaux, 1866-1938), who held the governorship of Heinaut Province in Belgium from 1908-1937. Damoiseaux was apparently awarded the 2nd Class Order of Ismail in 1927 during King Fuad’s visit to Belgium. The photos on the Jean Elsen & ses Fils site clearly shows a “Z” date hallmark on the reverse central boss of the neck badge. The reverse of the breast star also shows “Z” date hallmarks on the long ray to the viewer’s right of the central long ray of the inferior segment of the rayed embellishment and on the middle of the tunic pin. The ”Z” hallmark indicates an assay date of 1924-1925, still about 2 years before King Fuad travelled to Belgium and gave at least one Order of Ismail award during his official visit (also commemorated with a 1927 table medal). Of course, the assay date also might imply that Colnect has added a secondary spurious attribution. I know little about how many Egyptian Orders may have been made well-ahead of their distribution. I mostly assume that the date hallmarks represent ~2 year windows (the intervals covered by each date hallmark letter) on the decisions electing recipients and the formal award. The Jean Elsen & ses Fils listing also includes the above low-resolution photo of the neck badge and breast star resting in their presentation case. Note that no neck ribbon is now associated with this set. For comparison, above is the damaged Lattes-made 2nd Class Grand Officer breast star awarded to Dr. Giovanni Quirico (formerly archived on the La Galerie Numismatique website, but apparently no longer on that site: https://www.coins-la-galerie-numismatique.com/auction-33-day-1/order-ismail). The incorrect rotation of the star relative to the rayed embellishment is obvious. Also the central medallion with the name “Ismail” is rotated slightly to the left, out of its correct orientation. This high-resolution image shows a crack in the enamel of the upper left star arm, some possible enamel damage to the most proximal (nearest the central boss) portion of the most superior star arm, and extensive enamel damage is apparent to the most proximal portion of the upper right star arm, including fractures and abrasions. There may be some damage to gold portions of the breast star near where the enamel of the star arms is damaged. The clearly visible damage indicates that the Colnect statement about this being the set with brevet that belonged to King Fuad's Italian physician is almost certainly incorrect (the Dr. Giovanni Quirico set is fairly unique among recent auctions to have this identified association, along with the case and brevet). Above is a low-resolution portrait of Maurice Damoiseaux from a MutualArt website auction of 23 February, 2021 (https://www.mutualart.com/Artwork/Portrait-de-Maurice-Damoiseaux--gouverne/E701D8770ED488F). This undated portrait was painted by Louis Buisseret (1888-1956), and has the descriptive title: Portrait de Maurice Damoiseaux, Gouverneur du Hainaut. Damoiseaux was the Governor of the Heinaut province (usually written “Heynault” in English) in Belgium. He also held a Doctorate of Law from the Catholic University of Louvain and was the author of several political writings. The embroidered jacket appears to be part of insignia of the role as Governor of Heinaut. Similar jackets are shown on other contemporary portraits of Belgians identified as local Governors and Governor Generals of the Dutch East Indies. The Jean Elsin & ses Fils auction of 11 September, 2021 auction (Auction 148) also offered an Order of Léopold, 3rd Class Commander, Civil, in a Maison Wolfers presentation case with Damoiseaux's name on the outer lid and an award date of 8 April, 1929 as Lot 1508 of this same auction as the above Order of Ismail. Damoiseaux appears to be wearing this neck badge in the above portrait. At his retirement in 1937, he was promoted to Grand Officer of the Order of Léopold. Above is a low-resolution photo of one of Maurice Damoiseaux's calling cards. From a current eBay auction (https://www.ebay.com/itm/B-Ancienne-carte-de-visite-maurice-damoiseaux-gouverneur-mons-/372740020727?_ul=AR).
    24. Below is an image of a silver “housewife” (an 18th century term for a “sewing roll” or hussif [verbally, rarely written] for sewing equipment or embroidery supplies, or a cloth purse of some kind carried by women, and is applied to boxes holding silver service), sold under the J. Lattes name. This is from a 13 May, 2023 auction by HVMC, Auction House Monte Carlo, Lot 309 (https://hvmc.com/en/furniture-and-works-of-art-old-and-XNUMXth-century-paintings/important-housewife/). This same listing also is archived on the Drouot.com website (https://drouot.com/en/l/21410491-important-menagere-in-silver-with-chased-foliage-decoration) and calls this a ménagère, in English often translated as a canteen of silver cutlery, Although I am vigilant for additional examples of Lattes’ work, there are not a lot of examples of jewelry (see the 1st photo in my post of 12 November, 2019; and the 1st-2nd photos in my post of 6 March, 2020) or other objects attributed to him readily findable online. The clocks I have previously shown on this thread (see the 2nd-5th photos in my post of 12 November, 2019; the 4th-11th photos in my post of 8 March, 2021; the photo in my post of 29 June, 2021; and the 1st photo in my post of 11 April, 2023) are more commonly identified as the work of Lattes Frères of Geneve. Other than these clocks and the Egyptian royal awards, I have only encountered a small number of pieces that can be attributed to J. Lattes. The horology literature was the source of identification the probable first name of J. Lattes being Job Lattes. See the 1st photo in my post of 11 April 2023 on this thread showing the name Job Lattes on the clock face; and the info in my post of 16 April, 2023 from a horologic publication listing the of the 3 brothers in Lattes Fréres & Cie a Geneve as Italians from Cuneo in NW Italy living in Alexandria in 1883 , and identifying the name Job Lattes for the only brother with a first name beginning with "J". The above housewife is from the May, 2023 auction by HVMC, Auction House Monte Carlo, Lot 309. The only information in the Lot description is a listing of the contents and a summary of the form of decoration. It contains What is of interest to me is that the form of the Lattes label is similar to those placed inside Egyptian royal awards, and is attached in the same location of the inner lid. The label on this housewife reads: “J. Lattes Genève-Caire.” All the other Lattes pieces I have seen only have a form of the Lattes name printed on the lining of the cases, not a ribbon as seen above and on the various awards manufacture by Maison Lattes. This housewife contains: 24 large forks; 20 knives; 12 dessert cutlery; 12 dessert knives; 12 salt cellars with their small spoons; seven serving pieces; and 12 large spoons. The service is described as silver decorated with chiased foliage decoration and monogrammed “JM” on the handles. I realize this service is peripheral to interest in J. Lattes’ manufacture of royal awards. However, it is difficult to find out much about him and his shop, so that information from clocks or other pieces can occasionally add some information to the meager profile of this maker of such beautiful Egyptian awards. As a note on some of those other J. Lattes jewelry cases, I contacted Wave Antiques who continually feature a number of pieces of jewelry in what appears to be a single case marked: “J. LATTES JOAILLIER LE CAIRE” that do not appear to represent pieces likely to have been made in the early 20th century (see the 2nd-4th photos in my post of 11 April, 2023 on this thread). Wave Antiques currently still uses this same one(?) case to exhibit several earrings, brooches, etc (the example of a citrine brooch shown above is from: https://waveantiques.com/products/vintage-citrine-brooch). This website also uses other historic jewelry boxes for online exhibition that are unrelated to the makers of the jewelry they are selling. Wave Antique wrote back to me about my enquiry that none of the pieces they have illustrated on their website in this case were made by Lattes. The case is just used for display and photography for their online sale catalog. The case (and the other pretty older cases) is not sent out with purchases, and appears to be re-used for their rotating inventory display on the website. The lettering on this case is different from that on the royal awards and on the one other piece of jewelry I have found of J. Lattes (see the different form of calligraphy on the inside lid shown in the 1st photo in my post of 12 November, 2019).
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