Korea, Empire. A Rare Order Of The Auspicious Stars, I Class Grand Cordon, In Case, C.1910

Instituted April 17, 1900 by Emperor Kwangmu. A single class order, the Auspicious Stars Grand Cordon badge is in silver, comprising a four point star with clusters of five smooth white enamel rays, three white oyster flowers are in each quadrant connecting the rays, the center medallion features three superimposed stars on a red enamelled field, surrounded by a green enamel cucumber leaf wreath, the obverse mirrors the reverse, the badge is suspended by a lotus flower with green leaves below, the reverse of the suspension bears the kanji meaning “Auspicious Stars Great Decoration”, measures 77 mm (w) x 108.30 mm (h - inclusive of suspension and integral ring), weighs 134.5 grams, minor flaws in enamels, notable chip in the 6 o’clock ray on the obverse, areas of slight discolouration, lovely patina, an extremely rare decoration in extremely fine condition. The star of the order, in silver, features a four point star with clusters of smooth white enamel rays, between the arms sits three oyster flowers, the center medallion features three stars superimposed on a red enamelled field, surrounded by a wreath of cucumber leaves in green enamels, the reverse presents a vertical pin with dual stays, the center features the inscription “Auspicious Stars Great Decoration” surrounded by four rivets to secure the medallion, measures 86.20 mm (w) x 85.15 mm (h), slight discolouration and hairline cracks in enamels, lovely patina, a very rare star in extremely fine condition.

Accompanied by a full length sash of the order in watered silk, with a large flower rosette with hook for badge below, light wear and discolouration, remains in very fine condition.

The set is contained in an original case of issue featuring a velvet blue exterior, the interior lid is a padded yellow silk, the base as a storage compartment for the sash, measures 145 mm (w) x 265 mm (l) x 85mm (d), the medalbed is missing, hinge functional, clasp missing, wear and discolouration throughout, a rare case in fine condition.

The set and case are stored within a wooden case with images of the set adhered to the lid and side, measuring 175 mm (w) x 310 mm (l) x 100 mm (d), residue on exterior, light wear, extremely fine condition.

Footnote: This is the Korean equivalent of the Japanese Order of the Chrysanthemum. It was awarded to members of the imperial family and the highest military and civil ranks, who had already received the first class order of the Plum Blossom.