Insignia/Robes of the Civil Order of Savoy

King Charles Albert of Sardinia-Piedmont (1798-1849)

Portrait of Luigi Cibrario by Stefano Bolognini Wearing the Civil Order of Savoy Uniform and Insignia

Civil Order of Savoy
1831

Insignia and Uniforms
of the
Civil Order of Savoy

The insignia of the Civil Order of Savoy is a simple Greek Cross enameled in light blue with golden edging, bearing a round center medallion displaying on the obverse the royal monogram of King Charles Albert (Carlo Alberto). On the reverse of the medallion is the motto AL MERITO CIVILE 1831 (For Civil Merit - 1831). The cross is suspended as a breast decoration from a ribbon of three equal stripes of white, blue and white.

The Civil Order of Savoy had only one class of "cavaliere." The statutes of the Order establish that it is bestowed for merit upon government administrators, scientists and other humanists who have published important work, architects and engineers of noteworthy projects and distinguished educators.

The Order was worn on the left chest or in the buttonhole. The ceremonial uniform was blue with abundant gold embroidery, white breeches, silk stockings and shoes with gold buckles. A hat in triangular shape (French style) with black pen, golden clasp and golden tassels completed the uniform.