An important St Andrew star attributed to the Emperor Nicholas I (1796-1855) when only four years old

Russia, Order of St Andrew, a fine late 18th century reduced size tinsel breast star, 57 mm, the paper back with old inscription in ink ‘Nicholas 1st 4 Years Old’, cotton loop attached to one point of star, and contained in an old envelope with contemporary ink inscription ‘The Emperor Nicholas of Rufsia Star when only four years old’; together with a small portrait miniature of Nicholas I in full uniform and regalia, oils on ivory, signed Wright d’apres Dawe R.A., very good condition (2) £2000-3000

See Colour Plate IV

Provenance: Sold by direct descent from Sir James Leighton, P.C. and Physician to His Imperial Majesty Nicholas of all the Russias, and Physician General of the Imperial Navy.

Thomas Wright exhibeted at the Royal Academy between 1815 and 1847. In 1847 he exhibited a miniature of H.I.M. Nicholas I, probably this miniature. It is after a similar portrait by George Dawe R.A. (d. 1829), a member of the Royal Academy of Fine Arts of London and that of St Petersburg.