Imperial Russia St. Andrew for Sultan

[JapanX]

Another very early piece

[JapanX]

Different lighting

[JapanX]

Another (see http://gmic.co.uk/index.php/topic/55148-order-and-medal-from-collection-of-state-historical-museum-in-moscow/) portrait docoration from Pieter the Great

[JapanX]

Different lighting

[JapanX]

[JapanX]

It will be interesting to compare this piece with one that was sold by Sotheby's couple of years ago.

Here it is

[JapanX]

Comparison

[JapanX]

Interesting portraits of Peter the Great and Ekaterina the Great with St. Adrew Order

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[JapanX]

[JapanX]

[JapanX]

[JapanX]

Exellent set with diamonds from collection of Hermitage

Edited October 8, 2013 by JapanX

[JapanX]

[Chris Liontas]

WOW!!!!

I never knew the St Andrew Order was awarded like that. Imperial Russia had the most beautiful medals in my opinion.

[JapanX]

Yep.

Before April 16, 1797 cavalier could added (at his own expense) "diamonds and other precious stones" to the insignia.

In original: "Однако ж кавалер может дать несколько алмазов и других дорогих каменьев Казначею для употребления на крест и украсить оный по своей воле"

After 1797 diamonds become official special distinction and were added at His Majesty expense

Cheers,

Nick