Ext. Rare Ca. Early 1900s GCIE Knight Grand Commander Set Badge, Star & Sash Indian Empire

This is an extremely rare circa early 1900s cased GCIE Knight Grand Commander set including a star, badge and sash of the Most Eminent Order of the Indian Empire. The order, created by Queen Victoria in 1878, had three classes, the highest being the GCIE. Each piece bears the motto: Imperatricis Auspiciis ("Under the auspices of the Empress"). The award was given to both British and native officials who served in India. The now-dormant order has not been bestowed since Indian independence in 1947, and the last living recipient passed away in 2010. The case has a Garrard & Co. Ltd. "Goldsmiths, Jewellers, &c. TO THE KING By Special Appointment TO THE CROWN" maker mark. Each piece was handsomely fashioned in 18 karat gold and enamel, with the star having sterling silver as well.

Circa early 1900s.

Star: approximately 3-5/8" in height and 3-1/2" in width; badge: 3-1/2" in height and 2-5/16" in width; case: 10-1/2" x 6" x 1-1/2".

Star: 18 karat gold, sterling silver, enamel; badge: 18 karat gold, enamel; sash: silk; case: leather, velvet, silk, brass.

Star: vertical T-style pin with C catch; badge: suspension ring; case: hinge, push-in catch.

Garrard & Co. Ltd. Maker mark inside case.

This is from a British Commonwealth award collection which we will be listing more of over the next few months. CON-JMB-VIEJJXM14 LAEJJJX3/14 RET5/14

8 (Excellent-): The set is in excellent condition.

As with all my artifacts, this piece is guaranteed to be original, as described.