Japan, Manchukuo. An Extremely Rare Order of the Orchid Blossom, Grand Cordon Set in Case

(Ta Hsun Wei Lan Hua Chang). Instituted April 1 1934 by Emperor Kang Teh of Manchuria. A supremely rare Order of the Orchid Blossom, the highest award issued by the Empire of Manchuria, Grand Cross Set, comprising a sash badge of silver gilt, featuring a large yellow orchid blossom with the space between each petal in green enamels with gilt veins and five pearls in each quadrant, the center features a large pearl, the badge is suspended by a yellow enamelled orchid blossom, the reverse of the badge is plain with the reverse of the suspension presenting characters translating to “Order of Merit Decoration”, marked M atop the integral loop of the suspension and the integral suspension loop of the badge denoting manufacture at the Osaka Mint, the badge measures 69.20 mm (w) x 109.00 mm (h- inclusive of suspension), weighs 108.2 grams, enamels intact, one replacement pearl, scattered gilt wear on the veins, an exceptionally rare decoration which remains in extremely fine condition. Accompanied by the sash of the order, in yellow and orange watered silk, with large rosette and metal clip for badge attachment, in near mint condition.

The Star of the Order, in silver gilt, a ten point star with alternating clusters of five smooth white enamel rays and seven faceted gilt rays, the obverse superimposed medallion presents the matching insignia to the badge, featuring a large yellow orchid blossom with the space between each petal in green enamels with gilt veins and five pearls in each quadrant, the center features a large pearl, the reverse presents four rivets with central characters translating to “Order of Merit Decoration”, the tip of each ray is reinforced, and offers a vertical pinback with dual stays, the star measures 90.45 mm (w) x 95.20 mm (h), weighs 135.4 grams, enamel crazing and discolouration on the 12 and 2 o’clock rays, enamels on the medallion are intact, displaying scattered gilt wear, center medallion slightly loose, hinge and catch functional, in very fine condition.

Contained in its original case of issue, a black lacquer exterior with characters and an orchid blossom on the exterior, a purple velvet lid, and beige and golden patterned recessed medal bed, the top half lifts to offer a sash storage compartment, the case measures 130 mm (w) x 250 mm (l) x 70 mm (d), hinge and clasp functional, light wear to medal bed along folding crease, minor wear to exterior, a lovely case in near extremely fine condition. Accompanied by a button rosette in watered silk with riveted reverse.

The case is covered by the original paper wrap, featuring characters and a red ink stamp on the front, staining and discolouration throughout, but a very rare component of the complete set, in very fine condition.

The decorations 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 90 mm (d), minor wear in extremely fine condition.

Footnote: The Order of the Orchid Blossom is equivalent to the Japanese Order of the Chrysanthemum. From 1934 to 1940, there were only three awards of the Grand Cordon. This order is of the utmost rarity.