Japan, Empire. An Order Of The Sacred Treasure, Iii Class Commander With Award Document

(Zuihōshō, 瑞宝章). Instituted in 1888. Multi-piece construction, in silver with white and blue enamels, along with sixteen red glass cabochons, measuring 52.5 mm (w) x 57 mm (h) inclusive of its integral ring, intact enamels, very light contact, on its original full-length neck ribbon with bronze gilt clasp closure, the ribbon exhibiting a slight tear at the junction with the loop, near extremely fine. Accompanied by its Award Document with handwritten Japanese text in black ink, with an official stamp in red ink overlaying the text, along with an independent piece of paper inscribed with various translations, 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 with a platform in violet felt and recessed, measuring 79.5 mm (w) x 109 mm (h) x 35 mm (d), Japanese label stub affixed to the lid, scuffing and tiny chipping evident on the bottom, case better than very fine.

Footnote: The Order of the Sacred Treasure is a Japanese order, established on January 4, 1888 by Emperor Meiji as the Order of Meiji. Originally awarded in eight classes (from 8th to 1st, in ascending order of importance), since 2003 it has been awarded in six classes, the lowest two medals being abolished that year. The most widely conferred Japanese order, it is awarded to those who have made distinguished achievements in research fields, business industries, healthcare, social work, state/local government fields or the improvement of life for handicapped/impaired persons. Originally a male-only decoration, the order has been made available to women since 1919. It is awarded for both civil and military merit, though of a lesser degree than that required for the conferment of the Order of the Rising Sun. Unlike most of its European counterparts, the order may be conferred posthumously.