Insignia of the Order of the Precious Crown, Paulownia
Not on view
The Japanese order system, modeled on European examples, originated in the 1870s shortly after the Meiji Restoration to recognize individual merit, typically in the form of distinctive insignia such as medals, collars, and badges. The Supreme Order of the Chrysanthemum was the highest distinction conferred by the emperor; the Order of the Golden Kite was an exclusive military honor; and the Order of the Precious Crown was primarily awarded to women.
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