The Knights of Pythias have a genuinely notable claim to fame buried in the fraternal-order noise of 19th century America: founded in Washington, DC in 1864, it was the first such organisation to be chartered by an act of Congress, which is a slightly more official pedigree than most secret societies bother collecting. Their motto boiled down to the initials FCB — Friendship, Charity, Benevolence — values that sit a bit oddly alongside the skull and crossbones motif taking centre stage on this piece, though fraternal jewellery has never been shy about mixing solemn ideals with properly gothic imagery.
The skull's eyes are set with rubies, worked in fine enamel alongside crossed swords and a knight's helm, the whole composition rendered onto 10ct gold with the kind of density of detail that rewards a magnifying glass rather than a glance. Early 20th century fraternal regalia like this occupies a strange, underappreciated corner of collecting — part jewellery, part membership badge, part secret handshake made solid — and pieces this well preserved, with genuine gemstone and enamel work rather than cheap stamped brass, don't turn up especially often.
Condition notes
Excellent antique condition. Minor wear to corners of pendant and "pages" of the book.
