Commander's Cross of the Order of Mercy. Spain, 1920s-30s.

Commander's Cross of the Order of Mercy. Spain, 1920s-30s.
In gilded bronze and enamel.
Measurements: 9 x 6 cm (total, with crown).

Decoration or insignia of the Order of the Merced, also known as Royal and Military Order of Our Lady of Mercy and the Redemption of the Captives.

It was founded in 1218 by St. Peter Nolasco in Barcelona, with the main objective of freeing Christian captives in the hands of Muslims. Members of the Order of Mercy are distinguished by a fourth vow, in addition to the traditional vows of poverty, obedience and chastity, which commits them to liberate others weaker in the faith, even if their own lives are in danger.

Although initially focused on the redemption of captives, the order's mission has evolved to address new forms of modern-day slavery, such as helping prisoners, broken families, abused women and destitute children.

The insignia combines elements such as the cross, crown and coat of arms of the order, which include the bars of Aragon and the Mercedarian cross.