Japan, Empire. An Order of the Golden Kite, VI Class, c.1930

(Kinshi kunsho). Instituted in 1890. In silver gilt, measuring 43 mm (w) x 56.3 mm (h) inclusive its laterally-pierced ball suspension, very light contact on the reverse, original ribbon with hook and eye, near extremely fine. Accompanied by its 11.5 mm in diameter rosette with button hole attachment, in its hardshelled case of issue, the exterior with a black lacquer finish, balsa wood frame, gilt characters on the lid, the inside of the lid lined in violet satin and padded, the raised platform with a recessed medal bed in violet felt, case also near extremely fine.

Footnote: The Order of the Golden Kite was an order of the Empire of Japan, established on February 12, 1890 by Emperor Meiji "in commemoration of Jimmu Tennō, the Romulus of Japan." It was an exclusively military award, conferred for bravery, leadership or command in battle. The order consisted of seven classes. Enlisted rank soldiers were eligible for the 7th to 5th classes, non-commissioned officers were eligible for the 6th to 4th classes, junior officers for the 5th to 3rd classes, field grade officers for the 4th to 2nd classes and general officers for the 3rd to 1st classes. It was officially abolished by the Supreme Commander of the Allied Powers of Occupied Japan in 1947 after the Second World War.