Korea, Empire. An Order of the Golden Measure, Grand Cordon Set, c.1920

(Kumch'ok Taehunjang). Instituted 1900 by Emperor Kwangmu. Single Class. Conferred on heads of state and royalty only, a large silver sash badge consisting of a four principle arms composed of groups three large white rays, clusters of five rays in each quadrant, three Hibiscus blossoms in white enamels in each quadrant forming a surrounding laurel, obverse centre presenting the Taeguk in blue and red enamels, silver rulers extending from centre along each arm, reverse mirrors the obverse, a large suspension consisting of a large hibiscus flower with five green enamelled leaves, reverse of the suspension features the inscription “Golden Measure Great Decoration”, measuring 77.85 mm (w) x 111.15 mm (h - inclusive of suspension, horizontally pierced ball suspension), weighs 112.2 grams, one small chip to the obverse the green enamel leaves on suspension, scattered gilt wear on rulers and rays, middle hibiscus flower between the 12 and 3 o’clock arm is slightly bent, however this remains an extremely rare badge in extremely fine condition.

Accompanied by the large star of the order in silver, consisting of four principle arms composed of groups three large white rays, three hibiscus blossoms in white enamels in each quadrant forming a surrounding laurel, obverse centre presenting a star burst of 28 rays affixed at centre via rivets, red and blue enamelled Taeguk and silver rulers extending from centre along each arm, reverse is missing the vertical pin assembly however flanking stays are present with and hand engraved script meaning “Golden Measure Great Decoration”, two rivets present, two rivets missing, measuring 90.51 mm (w) x 90.32 mm (h), weighs 119.9 grams, enamel loss present on rays and the three hibiscus flowers between the 12 and 3 o’clock rays, stays slightly bent on reverse, remains an extremely rare star in near very fine condition.

Footnote: This Order was established on the 5th Anniversary of Korean Independence by Emperor Kwang Mu. It was primarily conferred upon members of the Imperial Household and upon foreign Heads of State. On rare occasions, it was awarded to civil and military personnel, who had previously received the Grand Cross of the Order of the Auspicious Stars, in recognition of extraordinary service.