Japan, Manchuko Period. An Order of the Pillars of the State, VIII Class

(満州国 柱國章). Instituted 1936 by Emperor Kang Teh. Manchukuo Empire (1936-1945 issued). Like the Oriental architectural style used in palace and temples, a four armed silver medal consisting of four stylized pillars in dark patina meeting at the centre, the quadrants featuring four diagonal lines ending in enamelled white circles, each line flanked by two additional further white enamel circles, the obverse centre embellishing by an enamelled white, red, blue, black, and yellow octagonal medallion (the colors of the Empire flag), displaying concentrical alternated rings, the reverse engraving with typical lettering denoting “Order of Merit”, measuring 40.47 mm (w) x 50.96 mm (h - inclusive of bar suspension), suspending by elaborated silver bar suspension of stalks of sorghum also in black patina, worn on a small segment of replacement ribbon, no clasps denoting VIII Class, light wear, remains in very fine condition.