Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

The Most Exalted Order of the Star of India, G.C.S.I., Knight Grand Commander’s mantle star, 149mm. dia., silver, gilt and enamel star set upon a circular silver mount covered by faded maroon velvet, with fitments to reverse for attachment, some enamel damage, very fine, rare £2000-2500

Attributed to Major-General Sir Owen Tudor Burne.

Owen Tudor Burne was born in Plymouth on 12 April 1837, the son of the Rev. Henry Thomas Burne. He entered the 20th Regiment in 1855 and served in the Crimea and in fifteen actions during the supression of the Indian Mutiny, including the siege and capture of Lucknow - receiving two steps of rank for gallantry in the field. Was Military Secretary to Sir Hugh Rose (Lord Strathnairn) when Commander-in-Chief of India, 1861; was Private Secretary to the Earl of Mayo, Viceroy of India, 1868-72; Earl of Lytton, Viceroy of India, 1876-78; Secretary Political and Secret Department, India Office, 1874; and Member of the Council of India, 1887-97. Created a K.C.S.I. in 1879 and G.C.I.E. in 1897. Major-General Burne died on 3 February 1909.