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

Instituted January 4, 1888 by Emperor Meiji. A lovely early Showa period 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 64.45 mm (w) x 68.50 mm (h – inclusive of integral suspension ball), weighs 47.1 grams, light enamel crazing on the arms, gilt intact, remains in extremely fine condition.

Accompanied by a full length original light blue and yellow watered silk sash, with central rosette and clip for badge attachment, minor discolouration on rosette, remains in extremely fine condition.

The Star of the Order, presenting eight arms of 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 73.00 mm (w) x 72.00 mm (h), weighs 75.7 grams, very minor gilt wear, light crazing on the white enamel arms, 12 o’clock ray bent, hinge and clasp functional, in extremely fine condition.

The set is contained in its original diplomatic case of issue, a slip black lacquer exterior lid with raised gilt Kirimons, the interior features a lacquered speckled pattern with characters and purple velvet partial recessed medal bed, with storage compartment for the sash below, measures 140 mm (w) x 265 mm (l) x 65 mm (d), purple exterior cord is included in the box however the exterior ring have been removed, light wear to the exterior including scratches, small dents, and a thin crack along the top right of the lid, remains in very 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 175 mm (w) x 305 mm (l) x 100 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.