Japan, Empire. An Early Order of the Sacred Treasure, I Class Grand Cordon Set in Case

Instituted January 4, 1888 by Emperor Meiji. A sought after set, comprising a sash badge in silver gilt, a four armed cross with clusters of five white enamelled smooth rays, the longest two on the outside edges, the obverse medallion presents a silver floral shaped mirror on a blue enamelled field, surrounded by two rings, one pebbled, one smooth, with sixteen red cabochons on the arms arranged in a star pattern, the reverse presents four rivets for the cabochons, with the characters translating to “Order of Merit Decoration”, measures 64.60 mm (w) x 68.05 mm (h – inclusive of integral suspension ball), weighs 53.7 grams, light enamel crazing on the arms, red cabochons portray areas of chipping and discolouring, scattered gilt wear, remains in extremely fine condition.

Accompanied by an early full length original grey and gold watered silk sash, with central rosette and clip for badge attachment, creased, remains in extremely fine condition.

The Star of the Order, presenting an eight armed star with alternating clusters of five silver gilt with white enamel rays and five silver with white enamel rays, each cluster separated by a short blue enamelled ray, the obverse medallion matches that of the badge, a silver floral mirror in the center on a blue enamelled field, encircled by a pebbled ring and a smooth ring, with a star pattern of sixteen red cabochons, the reverse features a vertical pin and dual stay assemblies with four rivets and characters translating to “Order of Merit Decoration”, measures 70.35 mm (w) x 72.05 mm (h), weighs 75.4 grams, scattered gilt wear, light crazing on the white enamel arms, hinge and clasp functional, in extremely fine condition.

The set is contained in its original case of issue, a black lacquer exterior with gilt characters on the lid, the interior features a rich purple silk lid and purple velvet recessed medal bed, with storage compartment for the sash below, measures 130 mm (w) x 255 mm (l) x 65 mm (d), light wear to the exterior including scratches and small dents, hinge and clasp functional, remains in very fine condition. Also contains the lapel button of blue and yellow watered silk with backing denoting I class, in extremely fine condition.

The decorations and case are held in a fitted wooden box with images of the set adhered to the exterior lid, stamp on the edge, the wooden box, measures 160 mm (w) x 290 mm (l) x 85 mm (d), minor wear in extremely fine condition.

Footnote: The sacred treasure is the lowest civil and military decoration, primarily granted for long and faithful service. Government officials would receive the I Class for 10 years of service. The order was frequently awarded to foreigners in an honorary way and for cultural or social merit to Japan.