(金凧勲章 / (Kinshi kunsho). Instituted in 1890. In silver gilt, measuring 42.8 mm (w) x 56 mm (h) inclusive of its laterally-pierced ball suspension, gilt loss evident on the golden kite (bird of prey, which was, a messenger of the kami as described in the ancient Japanese chronicle Nihon Shoki, which helped Emperor Jimmu defeat his enemies in battle), contact marks present on the reverse, on its original ribbon with hook and eye, better than very fine. Accompanied by its Rosette, measuring 11.2 mm in diameter with button hole attachment, in its hardshelled case of issue, balsa wood frame, the exterior with a black lacquer finish, gilt characters on the lid, inside lid lined in violet satin and padded, base in violet satin, with a platform incorporating a recessed medal bed in violet felt, measuring 59 mm (w) x 88 mm (h) x 26.5 mm (d), small chip evident in the black lacquer finish on the edge of the base, wear present in the fabric overlying the hinged area, with light contact and surface wear overall on the exterior, case near very 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.