Jewel of the English Order of the Garter, Dresden, 1693-1694. Gold, enamel, 23 diamonds, a ruby. H 7,4 cm. Inventory number: VIII 263. Green Vault © Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden 2016

The precious enamelled Pendant with Saint George fighting the dragon has great symbolic value. It is the jewel of the Garter, the "Order of the Garter." This was founded by Edward II. In 1347 the highest English Order, acts as its patron Saint George, in 1669 Elector Johann Georg II. Awarded as first Wettin. The insignia consisted of the formerly suspended from a blue ribbon medallion shaped "Lesser George" and designed as a small sculpture "Greater George", who used came only on special occasions, and was carried on the chain of orders. The medallion ( "Lesser George") was owned by John George IV., Who had received the prestigious award as the second Wettiner and, the jewel of the "Greater George" at Johann Melchior Dinglinger commissioned. The saint is represented here as a Roman general. Mandatory is reproduced on the blue ribbon Medal motto "Honi soit QVI times y pense" (be dishonored, who is thinking bad).