The Most Ancient and Noble Order of the Thistle, Mantle Star of the order, K.T., circa 1840, measuring approximately 200 mm in diameter, cloth bullion, silver wire and sequins, with green velvet background to motto and gilt thread wreath, cloth backing, no makers label.
Condition: cloth backing trimmed in places, wear to points and elsewhere, overall reasonable condition and evidence of having been worn.
This order is said to have been founded in AD787, alluding to barefoot enemy soldiers who cried out when they trod on thistles and thus alerted the Scots of an imminent attack. The order had long been defunct when it was revived by King James VII and II and re-established in December 1703 by Queen Anne. It now consists of the sovereign and 16 Knights, making it the most exclusive of the orders of chivalry. At death, the official insignia is returned to the Central Chancery.