Order of Maria Theresa, Commander's Cross (by Rothe, c. 1925)
CATEGORY: Version
SKU: 01.AUT.0102.103.01.002
Estimated market value:
Estimated market value:
Austria, Imperial. An Order of Maria Theresa, Commander Cross, by Rothe, c. 1925
(Militär-Maria-Theresien-Orden). Instituted June 18, 1757 by Empress Maria Theresa. A pristine Commanders Cross of the Military Order of Maria Theresa, constructed of silver gilt with multi-coloured enamels, consisting of a Cross Pattée with white enamelled arms, the obverse bearing a central red and white medallion emblematic of the Austrian Empire’s national colours, within a white enamelled ring bearing a gilt inscription of FORTITUDINI (For Courage), the reverse with a central white enamelled medallion bearing a gilt monogram of Empress Maria Theresa, within a green enamelled ring, the badge is suspended from an elongated double barrelled suspension loop, measures 44.00mm (w) x 47.84mm (h – inclusive of integral suspension ring), the suspension ring maker marked CFR (Rothe), with 925 denoting silver quality and hallmarked from the 1922-1925 period, worn on a period neck ribbon presenting minor wear and creases, enamels intact, in extremely fine condition.
The Austrian Military Order of Maria Theresa was the highestest war decoration awarded by the Habsburg monarchy, and was considered one of the most respected military orders of merit. It was conceptualized around 1749-1750, following the conclusion of the Peace Treaty of Aachen in 1748. The Order was officially founded during the Seven Years’ War (1756-1763), on June 18, 1757.
Count Leopold Joseph Daun reorganized the army in the late 1740s, which included the creation of a ‘military order of honour.’ This Order contained three classes and a pension that the recipient would receive.
The first designs for the order included a white maltese cross with the central medallion inscribed with the monarchs’ initials on one side, and the other side to have the words “Fortitude”, “Virtuti Militari”, or “Praemium Fortitudinis”. It was officially named “Military Maria Theresa Order” in early 1757, which was intended to express the gratitude and affection the Empress had for the soldiers. The first knights were inducted into the order March 7 and April 23, 1758 by Emperor Franz I, the first Grand Master of the Order. The Order official ceased to exist in 1986, when the last recipient died.
The Commander was conferred upon lower-ranking Generals and General Staff members for winning a campaign or battle.
Comments
Sign in to comment and reply.
COMMUNITY
ACCOUNT
Scroll Top
