Germany, Federal Republic. A Pour le Mérite with Oak Leaves, Superior Exhibition Example by Steinhauer & Lück, c. 1967 Province of China with the lower half overlaid

with the lower half overlaid by von Weichs’ handwritten signature in black ink

It was the first order of merit in France which permitted an Officer who was not of noble birth to be named a Knight

It measures approximately 200 mm in width x 140 mm in depth x 315 mm in height inclusive of its 192 mm x 122 mm pedestal base

86 mm (h) x 42

wear evident on the strap incorporating the snap closure

Germany, Federal Republic. A Pour le Mérite with Oak Leaves, Superior Exhibition Example by Steinhauer & Lück, c. 1967 Province of China with the lower half overlaid(Pour le Mrite mit Eichenlaub, Museumsstck). Constructed of gilded silver with enamels, consisting of a Maltese Cross with blue enameled arms joined through the quadrants by Prussian imperial eagles executed in exceptional detail, the three, six, and nine oclock arms bearing a gilt inscription of POUR LE MRITE, the twelve oclock arm bearing the gilt monogram of King Friedrich II of Prussia, the twelve o'clock arm bearing a semi circular loop