Lihwa Taehunjang. Instituted in 1900 by Emperor Kwangmu. A beautiful Grand Cross Sash Badge in silver gilt, consisting of a white four armed star, each arm composed of a cluster of three rays, three plum blossoms in each quadrant, obverse centre presenting the taeguk in blue and red enamels with red enamelled sun burst surround, a large suspension consisting of a large Hibiscus flower with three green enamelled leaves, reverse with a mirrored presentation, reverse of the Hibiscus flower suspension presents an inscription translating to “Order of Merit Decoration”, measuring 78.15 mm (w) x 109.60 mm (h - inclusive of Hibiscus and laterally-pierced ball suspension), weighs 134.0 grams, light enamel crazing in the red rays on obverse and reverse, small knock to the 9 o’clock side of the Taeguk, otherwise in extremely fine condition.
The Star of the order, consisting of a white four armed star, each arm composed of a cluster of three white enamelled rays, three plum blossoms in each quadrant, obverse centre presenting the taeguk in blue and red enamels with red enamelled sun burst surround, reverse with dual stays and a large principle pin assembly, four central rivets in the base enclose the Kanji, measuring 91.20 mm (w) x 91.15 mm (h), weighs 129.4 grams, minor crazing evident in the red enamelled rays, small scratches to the silver gilt rays, a scarce decoration and set in extremely fine condition.
Accompanied by a full-length original sash with flower rosette, in red and yellow watered silk, metal clip for badge suspension, in extremely fine condition.
The Set is contained in its original case of issue, featuring a textured blue exterior, yellow silk liner in the inner lid, with a removable burgundy recessed medal bed, with sash storage compartment below, measuring 128 mm (w) x 245 mm (l) x 85 mm (d), wear to the exterior, interior lid presents rips around the edges, hibiscus flower clasp functional, hinges functional, remains in very fine condition.