Order of the White Falcon, Type II, Civil Division, Grand Cross (for general merit)
CATEGORY: Version
SKU: 01.SXW.0102.101.01.002
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A gold Maltese cross with green enameled arms, the obverse with a large leftward facing white enameled falcon superimposed in the centre; the reverse with a central gilt applique with bright blue enamels, inscribed “Vigilando Ascendimus”, with white enameled arms; suspended from a hollow swivel crown suspension, with a horizontally pierced ball and loop for suspension - with its secondary loop for attachment to the sash; measuring 50.65 mm (w) x 51.10 mm (h); weighing 22.7 grams.
A Maltese cross, constructed of gold and enamel. The obverse cross is enamelled in green with a golden edge. A white enamelled left-facing falcon with golden edges and a light blue or black enamelled eye is placed on the cross. The reverse cross is enamelled in white. In the centre is an oval dark blue enamelled medallion with the golden inscription ‘VIGILANDO ASCENDIMUS’ (‘through vigilance we ascend’). At the top of the cross is a mobile golden crown attached to the cross via an agraffe situated between the tips of the 12 o’clock arm. On a loop for suspension, on a red ribbon.
The Order of the White Falcon was originally founded by Duke Ernst August to honour Emperor Charles VI, but the order quickly fell into disuse.
The order was renewed on October 18, 1815 by Grand Duke Carl Ernst, and it was awarded to Saxon citizens in recognition of meritorious civil and military service, especially service that benefited the ducal house.
While it was primarily a house order, it was also conferrable to foreign high ranking heads of state.
The Type II order awards were conferred within the Civil Division and the Military Division.
The Military Division awards conferred from 1815 to 1870 feature a trophy of arms design on the reverse, while the Military Division awards conferred from 1870 to 1918 feature crossed swords through the centre of the cross and a wreath on the reverse.
The Civil Division awards conferred from 1815 to 1918 feature a wreath on the reverse and no crossed swords.
The Type II Grand Cross and Grand Cross Breast Star that were conferred upon members of royal houses and heads of state were larger in size than the regular awards.
In 1892, a version was created to recognise general merit that was rendered in the name of the grand ducal house. The awards for general merit did not feature a red and green enamelled square between the cross arms.
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