North German, late 16th century

centred by the figure of Constance holding an anchor and inscribed  CO STA CIE within a red heart, and around VIRTVTIS AMORE 1589, the outer edge with clasped hands above and a gold band with FSV and the further inscription QVI PERSEVERAVERIT VSQVE AD FINEM SALVVS ERIT, within a border of C scrolls, two pendant chains from suspension loop centred by an elector's crown, the back with FIDES with a cross, a chalice and tablets, crossed swords and arrow

Formerly in the Hohenzollern Collection after it was found in the coffin of the Elector Johann Georg von Brandenburg (died 1598)

Princely Magnificence: Court Jewels of the Renaissance 1500-1630, ex. cat. Victoria and Albert Museum, London Oct 1980-Feb1981, mentioned in note to 75h

Overall condition is good but there are losses to enamelling as is evident in the catalogue photograph. The white enamel has discoloured to a grey colour . Wear consistant with age
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The order of the Golden Society in Saxony was founded by the Elector Christian I of Saxony whose Motte Fide Sed Vide is represented by the letters FSV above the clasped hands. The Princely Magnificence exhibition catalogue illustrates  another version of the order with its chain which is in the Bayerisches Nationalmuseum, Munich (inv.no.T4221) and records a further six others examples. 

Christian I was born in Dresden in 1560, the 6th but 2nd living son of the Elector August and Anne of Denmark. On the death of his brother Alexander in 1565 he became heir apparent. He succeeded to the electorate on the death of his father  papa in 1586. On the 25th April 1582 he married Sophie, daughter of Johann Georg, Elector of Brandenburg who was the owner of this pendant.