Cambodia, Modern Kingdom. A Royal Order of Sowathara, Knight with Clasp, c.1975

(Order Royal du Sowathara / Meday Sowathara). Instituted in 1923; Abolished in 1975; Re-Instituted in 1995. Multi-piece construction, in bronze gilt with red and green enamels, measuring 58.8 mm (w) x 101.2 mm (h) inclusive of its suspension, clasp in bronze gilt with five glass stones affixed to its original ribbon with pinback, intact enamels, extremely fine.

Footnote: The original Royal Order of Sowathara was instituted in 1923 by the King of Cambodia in three classes: Commander, Officer, and Knight. It was expanded on August 23, 1956 to five classes. The Order was abolished in 1975 with the advent of the Khmer Rouge regime and the abolishment of the monarchy. Upon the re-establishment of the monarchy in 1993, the Order was reinstated on October 5, 1995. This Order is conferred in recognition of exceptional accomplishments in agriculture, the economy, and public works.