A complete set of Grand Cordon (桐花大綬章, To-ka daijusho-): Sash Badge in gilt Silver as a “cross of white enameled rays, flanked by purple enameled flowers, the centre as a red enameled star centered by a red enamel-cabochon, symbolizing the rising sun, as symbol of Japan; on to, a hinged, green leaf, surmounted by three groups of Paulownia flowers; sphaerical loop and round suspension ring; the reverse, same as the obverse, but the upper leaf, bearing a golden inscription; with original, sash ribbon; Breast Star in gilt Silver and enamels, similar to the Order’s badge, but convex and except the upper suspension; polished reverse with Japanese inscription and fitted with vertical ring and two side-hooks; the whole in the original, black lacquer case with fitted inner compartment and lapel rosette; the lid, with vertical inscription and golden Paulownia leaf; the whole, in the original, light wood protective outer case, this, with an embossed image of a Japanese Samurai.
A fantastic, most rare set of this one-class order, second in importance, after the Order of the Chrisantemum, dating to the early 20th Century, awarded for outstanding, signaled merits towards the Emperor and the State; excellent condition.
Dim.: the badge, 114,0 x 77,0 mm.; the star, dia., 88,0 mm. I RR!