Original French Colonial Decorations – Two-Class Set
Key Information:
• Country: France
• Order: Order of the Black Star of Benin
• Classes: Officer and Knight
• Period: Interwar period, approx. 1920s–1930s
• Construction: Multi-piece construction with enamel work
• Officer with rosette, Knight without rosette
• Original ribbons
Medal Design:
The Order of the Black Star of Benin (Ordre de l'Étoile Noire du Bénin) was established in 1889 and became one of France’s important colonial decorations.
Both decorations feature the characteristic five-armed cross with white enamel centers and deep blue enamel borders. The central black five-pointed star symbolizes the Black Star order device. Between the arms are radiating rays.
The Officer class is distinguished by the rosette on the ribbon.
The Knight class is suspended from a plain ribbon without rosette.
Green enamel laurel wreath suspension present on both pieces.
Condition:
• Enamel generally well preserved with minor wear consistent with age
• Visible age patina on metal surfaces
• Gilding on Officer partially worn
• Knight shows natural darkening of metal
• Ribbons show age, light staining and minor wear
• No boxes
• For condition, please refer to the pictures, all dimensions are approx.
Historical and Collectible Significance:
The Order of the Black Star of Benin was originally founded by the King of Porto-Novo and later incorporated into the French colonial honors system. It was awarded for civil and military merit in French West Africa and other colonial territories.
Multi-class groupings are increasingly difficult to find on the market, especially when preserved together.
Summary:
An attractive and original two-class grouping of the French Order of the Black Star of Benin, including Officer and Knight grades. A desirable colonial decoration set with strong display presence.