Cambodia, French Protectorate. A Royal Order of Sowathara, Officer, c. 1950

(គ្រឿងឥស្សរិយយសលំដាប់សហមេត្រី). Instituted on June 22, 1923. A bronze gilt decoration featuring clusters of five rays with bushels of wheat and grans in green and orange enamels in each quadrant, the decoration is suspended from a Goddess of the Earth suspension depicting a woman in green, red enamelled clothing wringing her black enamelled hair, the obverse centre presents a black enamelled field with a superimposed bronze gilt center, the reverse is plain, measures 41.96mm (w) x 64.17mm (h – inclusive of Goddess suspension), weighs 14.4 grams, worn on original ribbon with large rosette, lost of enamel to goddess, ribbon faded, near very fine condition.

Footnote: In 1923, this Order was instituted by the King of Cambodia in 3 classes: Commander, Officer, and Knight. It was expanded on August 23, 1956 to 5 classes. In 1995, it was reinstated. This Order is conferred in recognition of exceptional accomplishments in agriculture, the economy, and public works. It is also known as the Order of Agricultural Merit.