China, Qing Dynasty. An Order of the Double Dragon, 1st Class, 3rd Grade, c.1905

(双龙宝星). (Shuānglóng Bǎoxīng). Instituted by the Guangxu Emperor on 7 February 1882. Type II (1900- 1912 Issue). A type II set that combines the design elements from both Eastern and Western traditions, in silver gilt consisting of six plain field arms, centre medallion presents inlaid coral stone flanked by two acsending dragons, with small stone at 12 o'clock, enameled exterior patterned bordering, measuring 46 mm (w) x 66.5 mm (h - inclusive of ring suspension), with elongated suspension loop sewn into orginial period sash, with chipping of small coral stone, exhibiting enamel loss and corrosion, good. Accompanied by the star of the order, consisting of an eight-pointed star composed of long, narrow silver gilt rays, with a centre medallion comprised of four concentric rings, the inner ring containing presenting the large central coral stone surrounded by inlaid pearls, the middle ring with Manchu inscriptions on the left and Chinese descriptions on the left, both in silver gilt characters, the third ring presents ascending dragons with a setting for a small coral stone at 12 o'clock, surrounded by flames and three mountains at 6 o'clock, the outer ring with a pattern boarder surrounding the award, reverse with pin assembly, measuring 85 mm (w) x 84 mm (h), missing small coral stone as well as two pearls, with enamel wear and exhibiting corrosion, good.

This offering is a part of the "Dr. Albert Goodwin Collection", a preeminent assemblage of world Orders, Medals, and Decorations composed solely by Dr.Goodwin between 1946-1967. Dr. Goodwin had a successful career as an educator and prominent physician in New York as well as actively serving in both World Wars with the United States Medical Corps. He acted as both President and Vice-President of the Orders and Medals Society of America (OMSA) and is responsible for organizing their first convention in 1960. He maintained further membership with the American Society of Military Collectors, the International Orders Research Society, and the American Numismatic Society. His knowledge and passion for history and awards is evident in this meticulously compiled collection that is now available in its entirety for the first time exclusively on eMedals.com.