The imperial Order of Our Lord Jesus Christ, or simply Order of Christ, was created by Emperor Pedro I on December 7, 1822, based on the Portuguese Order of Christ. The order was awarded to persons for exceptional services the resulted in notable and proven utility to religion, to humanity and the state. Knights of the order were part of the untitled nobility of the Empire of Brazil. In 1843 the order lost its military prerogatives, however the order remained highly regarded by the nobility of Brazil as a result of its importance to history and the prestige that it provided to knights. The order ceased to exist on March 22, 1890.

This knight’s cross is made from gold and enamel. It comes with its original ribbon and privately purchased wearing device made from pure gold.

While the cross could qualify for “best condition” the reverse medallion went missing.

Very old and rare cross.