Physical Description

The Grand Cross is a Maltese cross constructed of gold, silver gilt, and enamels. The arms of the cross are in blue enamel with a gold border. The quadrants between the arms bear a crowned "W" monogram. The obverse centre bears a circular medallion with a horse in front of a column on a red enamel background, encompassed by a white twisted border, topped with a crown. The 12, 3, and 9 o'clock arms bear peacock feathers, and the 6 o'clock arm bears an image of a knight. The reverse centre bears the inscription "IMMOTA FIDES" on a red enamel background, encompassed by a border with the inscription "MDCCCXXXIV". The top of the cross bears small rays, a lion between two green enamel oak leaves, and a crown suspension. There are examples of the Grand Cross in diamonds.

History

The Dukely Order of Henry the Lion was founded by Duke Wilhelm of Brunswick on April 25, 1834. The order was conferred upon individuals who distinguished themselves by rendering meritorious military or civil service. Civil service included outstanding work in the fields of art and science.

The conferral of the award was not dependent on an individual’s class or rank.
The grand mastery was linked to the government of the duchy, and the oldest voting member of the ducal state ministry acted as chancellor.
Decorations had to be returned upon the death of the recipient.

During the Franco-German War in 1870, crossed swords were added to all war merit awards.
In 1877, the Knight class was split into I Class Knight and II Class Knight.
In 1908, on the commemoration day of Duke Wilhelm's birthday, the order was redesigned with the addition of a I Class between the Grand Cross and the Commander Cross, as well as an Officer Cross between the Commander Cross and I Class Knight Cross.
The Dukely Order of Henry the Lion was conferred from 1834 to 1918.

The Grand Cross in silver gilt was awarded between 1912 and 1918. Beginning in 1912, the tail of the horse on the obverse points upwards.