Vatican - Papal State: Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, Grand Cross Star
This Grand Cross Breast Star is part of the prestigious Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem (Ordo Equestris Sancti Sepulcri Hierosolymitani, OESSH), one of the oldest Catholic chivalric orders, historically linked to the defense of the Holy Land.
Key Details:
Institution: Recognized as a papal order, formally restructured by Pope Alexander VI (1496) and later reorganized under Pope Pius IX in 1847.
Status: Still awarded today under Vatican authority.
Class: Grand Cross Breast Star (the highest rank in the order).
Material: Silver with enamel details.
Dimensions: 87.48 mm (height) x 86.25 mm (width).
Markings: Unmarked (likely pre-1950s issue).
Historical & Religious Significance:
The Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre traces its origins to the First Crusade (1099) when Godfrey de Bouillon and his knights captured Jerusalem.
Over the centuries, it evolved into a papal order of knighthood, dedicated to supporting Christian communities in the Holy Land.
The Grand Cross Breast Star is awarded to high-ranking Catholic nobility, clergy, and dignitaries who have rendered exceptional service to the Church.
Design Features:
Obverse (Front) Details:
Red enamel Jerusalem Cross (Cross Potent with four smaller crosses), symbolizing the five wounds of Christ.
Silver starburst backing, radiating outward, reflecting chivalric and military tradition.
Polished and raised metal details, enhancing visual appeal.
Reverse (Back) Details:
Plain with fastening pin (refer to photos for clasp details).
Suspension & Mounting:
Designed for formal wear, pinned on the left chest of ceremonial attire.
This Vatican - Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre, Grand Cross Star is a rare and significant Catholic chivalric award, perfect for papal order collectors, Christian military order historians, and Vatican-related collections.