Order of Alfonso X The Wise Decoration - Commander - Spain 20th Century

Order of Alfonso X the Wise Decoration. Commander. Spain, 20th century Complete set of the Order of Alfonso X the Wise, corresponding to the rank of Commander, one of the most recognized civil decorations of the Spanish State. The set is presented complete, carefully arranged in its original period case. All pieces are preserved in very good condition. The neck cross is made of gilded silver and enamel, with cross arms ending in trilobed shapes and intense red enamel. At the center appears a circular medallion depicting Alfonso X the Wise, enamelled on a blue background and surrounded by the identifying legend. The enamel shows uniform brilliance and presents no chips, cracks or losses. The cross retains its suspension ring and is accompanied by its original neck ribbon, in very good condition, with no visible fraying or discoloration. The breast star, larger in size and with strong visual presence, repeats the design of the central cross, mounted on a gilded silver metal structure with straight trilobed arms, also enamelled in red. The reverse shows a complete and functional fastening system, without looseness or deformation. The gilding maintains a homogeneous tone, and the piece shows no signs of oxidation or noticeable wear. The corresponding miniature is also included, made with the same design in reduced proportions, intended for lapel wear or less formal occasions. Despite its small size, it retains all the details of the larger model, with well applied enamels and vivid colors, indicating careful manufacture. The original case accompanies the set and perfectly fulfills its function of protection and presentation. The interior preserves its padding and compartments adapted to each piece, while the exterior remains firm, with no breaks or significant deterioration. The entire set is in excellent condition, with no defects to note, no restorations, and all original pieces included. This set is particularly interesting for preserving all its original components together and stands out for its outstanding state of conservation, with intact enamels and a well preserved original case. It represents a solid opportunity both for collectors of decorations and for those seeking a Spanish institutional piece of proven quality. History of the Order of Alfonso X the Wise The Civil Order of Alfonso X the Wise was created in Spain in 1939 and officially regulated in 1945, with the aim of recognizing outstanding merits in the fields of education, science, culture, research and teaching. Its name honors King Alfonso X of Castile, known as the Wise, a 13th century monarch whose legislative, cultural and scientific work had a decisive influence on Iberian and European history. From its origin, the order was conceived as a purely civil distinction, separate from military honors, and intended for both Spanish and foreign citizens who had made significant contributions to intellectual and cultural progress. Over time, it has maintained its institutional continuity, passing through different political periods of the Spanish State, from the Franco era to the current parliamentary monarchy, which reinforces its value as a decoration of historical continuity. The rank of Commander occupies an intermediate high position within the hierarchy and is usually awarded to individuals with well established careers in their respective fields. The insignia of the Order of Alfonso X the Wise are characterized by the use of red enamel and the central medallion with the effigy of the monarch, symbols associated with knowledge, cultural authority and academic tradition. Today, these decorations are highly appreciated by collectors, institutions and scholars of Spanish administrative and cultural history.