Korea, Empire. An Order of the Eight Trigrams, II Class Star

(兌 Duì). Instituted 1901. A large circular star in silver with six blue enamelled rays, each with white enamel bordering, each quadrant depicting three hand pebbled silver lesser rays, centre applique presents a hexagram with three lines red enameling which translates into Lake Valley, reverse with dual stays and pin assembly, the middle tip of each white enamelled ray has been reinforced on the reverse, measures 85.61 mm (w) x 87.05 mm (h), weighs 85.0 grams, enamel crazing and small chips on four of the seven rays, lovely patina, a very rare decoration in near very 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 II Class is water and complacent satisfaction. This order was awarded until 1910, when Korea was annexed by Japan.