China, Republic. An Order of the Brilliant Star, I Class Set, c.1947

(Jǐng xīng Xūnzhāng). Instituted February 12th, 1941. A cased Order of the Brilliant Star, I Class Set, consisting of:

A Sash Badge, constructed of gilded silver, consisting of an eight-pointed star at the bottom layer with each point constructed of a total of five points with a multi-faceted surface, the next layer consists of another eight-pointed star of white enamels with each point constructed of a total of seven points, the top layer consists of an eight-pointed star of red enamels with dual ball finials on each, with a single gilded five pointed star at the twelve o’clock arm, and a circular central blue enamelled medallion bearing a white enameled five-pointed star, the reverse with similar Chinese characters and numbered “657”, suspended from a fixed and swivel ring from its full size period original sash ribbon, measuring 73.1 mm (w) x 78.9 mm (l), enamels intact, minor wear, in extremely fine condition. 

The Breast Star, constructed of gilded silver, of multi-layered construction, consisting of an eight-pointed star at the bottom layer with each point constructed of a total of five points with a multi-faceted surface, the next layer consists of another eight-pointed star of white enamels with each point constructed of a total of seven points, the top layer consists of an eight-pointed star of red enamels with dual ball finials on each, with a single gilded five pointed star at the twelve o’clock arm, and a circular central blue enamelled medallion bearing a white enameled five-pointed star, the reverse with Chinese characters along with a tall barrel hinge, vertical tapered pinback, and ornate clasp closure, measuring 89.9 mm (w) x 89.8 mm (l), weighing 117.09 grams, several small cracks in the enamel arms, otherwise in extremely fine condition. 

Accompanied by the miniature of the order and the boutonniere of the I Class of the order. The set is contained in the original case of issue, a burgundy leatherette case with central enamelled insignia on the lid, the interior lid in silk with a yellow velvet medalbed, measures 130 mm (w) x 285 mm (h) x 55 mm (d), functional hinge and clasp, discolouration the exterior and staining to the interior silk, light wear, remains in near very fine condition.