Vatican – Order of Saint Gregory the Great (Grand Cross)

Description

The order was founded by Pope Gregory XVI in his first year as Pontiff on 1 September 1831. Awards of the Order are usually made on the recommendation of Diocesan Bishops or Nuncios for specific services and it is awarded to acknowledge an individual’s particular meritorious service to the Church. Saint Gregory the Great was Pope from 3 September 590 to 12 March 604 and is one of just two Popes to have the epithet “Great”. He had been Prefect of Rome and exerted enormous influence in extending the authority of the Church and in shaping its organization and discipline, laying the foundations of medieval Catholicism. The nature of the man may be measured by his being declared a saint by popular acclamation immediately after his death.  

Silver-gilt-edged deep red enamel Maltese cross with silver-gilt ball-tipped finials, on oval green enamel laurel wreath suspension, with maker’s plaques “A” and “TANFANI/BERTARELLI” on the reverse. The face with a circular central blue enamel medallion bearing the silver-gilt portrait of Saint Gregory the Great in relief within a gilt ring inscribed “St. GREGORIUS MAGNUS”. The reverse with a blue enamel circular central medallion inscribed in gilt letters “PRO DEO ET PRINCIPE” (For God and Prince) within a gilt ring with the inscription ‘GREGORIUS XVI P.MAX. ANNO I’ on original sash. Large eight-pointed diamond-cut silver star with the face of the badge.

The reverse mounted with pin and hooks for wear and in the center a cartouche with the producer’s name “TANFANI/BERTARELLI” and an “A” beneath. Tanfani were Vatican Court tailors and renowned manufacturers of Vatican orders. Comes with the original case of  “TANFANI & BERTARELLI/PIAZZA DELLA MINERVA/ROMA” On the lid Pope Pius XI (1922-1939) coat of arms. The set is in almost mint condition.