Japan, Imperial. An Order Of The Rising Sun, Ii Class, C.1920

(旭日章 Kyokujitsu-shō). Instituted in 1875 by Emperor Meiji. 1919-1938 issued. A rare set consisting of an enameled white gilt-framed symbol of the rising sun in silver gilt, featuring a typical central red glass cabochon, with mirrored design, suspended by an enameled green and violet emblem of the Paulownia Flowers, with reverse inscription “Order of Merit” in gilded Japenese lettering, measuring 56.28 mm (w) x 86.60 mm (h - inclusive of the Paulownia Flowers suspension and integral ring), light contact, nice piece in near mint condition. Accompanied by two original full-length neck ribbons in moire silk, with functional flip clip closures, measuring 45 mm, and 41mm length, along with original button ribbon and a bar ribbon for II Class, the bar ribbon is lacking of catch and sewn thread.

Accompanied by a breast star consisting of an eight-pointed silver star, with arms composed by clusters of three pebbled rays with polished frame, the obverse exhibiting an enameled white gilt-framed symbol of the rising sun in silver gilt, featuring a typical central red glass cabochon, the reverse with vertical pinback flanked by dual prongs, inscribed “Order of Merit” in gilded Japenese lettering, measuring 86.59 mm (w) x 89.62 mm (h), light contact, near mint condition.

All together on a rare presentation case for a II Class set, consisting of two pieces constructed of wood frame with a lacquered black exterior, the exterior of the lid with nine stylized gilded Paulownia flowers, the interior is lacquered gilt with a silvered inscription in Japanese characters, the base of the case flanked on each side by silvered loops holding in place two braided red cords completing in tassels, the interior with retractable depressed and slotted purple medal beds, measuring 120 mm (w) x 237 mm (l) x 30 mm (h), light contact, in near mint condition.

Footnote: The Rising Sun award was the first of Japan's official orders, established in 1875. It has nine classes, the highest being the 1st Class Rising Sun Order of the Paulonia Flowers. After that award, there are 8 classes that are not only designated by a number but also by a name. So oftentimes, on award documents, for example, the number of the class will not be indicated but the name of the award will be.