Korea, Empire. An Order of the Trigram, III Class in Case

(兌 Duì). Instituted 1901. A III Class decoration in silver, presenting six blue enamelled arms with white enamel borders, the center medallion features three red enamelled lines, the middle has been separated into two blocks, the reverse is plain with a kanji inscription in the center, measures 56.83 mm (w) x 64.05 mm (h - inclusive of integral suspension ring), weighs 36.5 grams (including ribbon), worn on an original full length neck ribbon, missing ribbon to tie for closures, the II class enamels show chipping and discolouration, dark patina on the silver, light contact, in near very fine condition.

Accompanied by a lapel button for the III Class decoration of blue and red cloth/embroidered silk, a small section missing from the side, remains in near very fine condition.

Contained in its original blue velvet case of issue, with yellow silk interior lid and maroon recessed medalbed with a storage section cut out near the hinges for the neck ribbon, measures 108 mm (w) x 148 mm (l) x 55 mm (d), loss of velvet to exterior, missing catch, light wear and discolouration throughout, in very fine condition.

The III Class and case are held within a wooden box with modern photos of the award on the exterior lid and side, measures 130 mm (w) x 184 mm (l) x 69 mm (d), minor contact, in extremely fine condition.

Footnote: This Order was established on the 6th Anniversary of Korean Independence. The symbolism used is the Chinese Ba Gua, based on Taoist cosmology. Each Class is represented by a particular object and figure. The III Class is fire and elegance. This order was awarded until 1910, when Korea was annexed by Japan.