Physical Description

A circular medal over a Rupert cross, constructed of silver. The obverse features the left-facing portrait of Grand Duke Ernst Ludwig and Grand Duchess Eleonore with the inscription ‘ELEONORE ERNST LUDWIG’. The words are situated next to the 9 o’clock, 12 o’clock, and 3 o’clock arm of the cross, respectively. The 12 o’clock arm features a crown, while the other three arms feature a leaf pattern. The reverse centre features a square with a pelican inside, feeding her young. The cross is covered in laurel leaves. The circular inscription reads ‘FÜR VERDIENSTE IN DER WOHLFAHRTSPFLEGE’. The lower cross arm features the maker mark ‘C. POELLATH SCHROBENH.’ and the silver mark ‘800’. On a pebbled clasp for suspension. A variant of the medal features a suspension loop.

History

The Ernst Ludwig and Eleanor Cross was instituted by Grand Duke Ernst Ludwig and was conferred upon citizens of Hesse, male or female, in recognition of their selfless commitment to providing welfare services.

The cross could also be conferred upon foreigners.