This item is part of The M. Quigley Collection: Orders of the Japanese Empire & Associated States. Click Here to view all items in this collection.
(旭日章 Kyokujitsu-shō). Instituted in 1875 by Emperor Meiji. Early Meiji Period. A II Class set of the Order of the Rising Sun, comprising of a thin neck badge, consisting of an enamelled white gilt-framed symbol of the rising sun in silver gilt, featuring a typical central red glass cabochon, reverse with mirrored design, suspended by an enamelled green and violet emblem of the Palownia Flowers, with reverse inscription “Order of Merit” in gilded Japanese lettering, measures 54.88 mm (w) x 87.35 mm (h - inclusive of suspension and integral ring), weighs 66.7 grams, enamel wear to the obverse and reverse 12 o’clock arm, and on the reverse suspension, a very thin badge with yellowed rays denoting Hirata manufacture, worn on a full length neck ribbon of silk, a rare decoration in very fine condition. The II Class star of the Order, consisting of an eight-pointed silver star, with arms composed by clusters of three pebbled rays with polished frame, the obverse exhibiting an enamelled white gilt-framed symbol of the rising sun in silver gilt, featuring a typical central red glass cabochon, the reverse features a screwback post and nut over top of the inscription, four rivets surrounding to secure the medallion to the obverse, measures 86.20 mm (w) x 89.30 mm (h), weighs 64.9 grams, a very thin star typical of Hirata manufacture, enamels intact, one small knock to glass cabochon, otherwise in extremely fine condition.
Accompanied by an additional segment of neck ribbon of discoloured white and red silk.
Contained in its original case of issue, of wood and black lacquer, presenting a Pawlonia flower and leaves in gilt along with an inscription on the lid, the interior in rich purple silk with a dark purple recessed medalbed for the neck badge and slot for the ribbon near the hinge, along with an additional medalbed in the bottom half, the case measures 120 mm (w) x 240 mm (l) x 50 mm (d), light scuffing to exterior, and wear to the interior, hinge and clasp functional, in very fine condition.
All pieces contained in a wooden box with modern photos adhered to the lid, stamped on the side, measures 45 mm (w) x 267 mm (l) x 65 mm (d), light stain on obverse, remains in extremely fine condition.
Footnote: The II class of the order can be award to high command generals / admirals (大将) or highest rank civil officers (親任官) as "first award of the order" (初叙). The II class of the order can be award to generals or high rank civil officers (勅任官) with excellence contributions.