Pour le Mérite (Blue Max)

The item is a 'Pour le Mérite' order, a prominent Prussian military honor. Physically, it is a Maltese Cross, characterized by its four arms broadening towards the ends, which are then notched into two points. The cross is primarily enameled in a deep, rich blue on the front, with thin gold borders outlining each arm. The central design is gold, featuring what appears to be a stylized 'F' (likely for Frederick the Great, the order's founder) crowned on the top arm and the motto 'Pour le Mérite' inscribed in gold lettering on the other three arms. The reverse side is not visible, but typically features an eagle. The construction reveals a background of finely detailed gold foliage or wreath-like elements, visible through the spaces between the blue enameled arms, contributing to a sense of depth and intricate craftsmanship. The item exhibits signs of wear consistent with age and handling, particularly around the edges and the suspension loop. There appears to be some loss or dulling of the gold finish on the suspension ring and the attachment, which is a metal clasp connected to a piece of white string. This string and clasp setup are non-standard for displaying such an order and suggest it may be part of a temporary mounting or for storage/inventory purposes. The overall condition suggests that while it has been preserved, it has not remained in pristine, unworn condition. The quality of the enameling and the detailed gold work indicates a high level of craftsmanship, typical of significant military decorations. Given the historical context of the 'Pour le Mérite' as a Prussian honor, it would date from its period of use, primarily between the 18th century and the end of the German Empire in 1918. The design suggests a late 19th or early 20th-century piece, though a more precise age would require examination of specific hallmarks or manufacturing attributes not visible here.

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