a rare russian gold, enamel and diamond grand cross badge of the imperial order of st. catherine, circa 1800

the front with the enameled image of St. Catherine, the letters C.B.E. above her head, for Holy Martyr Catherine, the border and arms of the cross set with diamonds, the reverse enameled with an eagle's nest and  inscribed in latin, "Share the Duties of Society." With an associated fitted leather case

The Order of St. Catherine, which came in two classes, was established by Peter the Great on November 22nd, 1714. The Grand Cross was limited to twelve outside the Imperial family and the Lesser Cross was limited to ninety-four including foreigners. As the highest Russian Order for females, Grand Duchesses became members at Baptism and Princesses upon reaching maturity.