The Supreme Order of the Chrysanthemum (大勲位菊花章 Dai-kun’i kikka-shō, literally Grand Order of the Capitulum of the Chrysanthemums) is Japan’s highest order.
The Grand Cordon of the Order was established in 1876 by Emperor Meiji of Japan; the collar of the Order was added on 4 January 1888. Unlike its European counterparts, the order may be conferred posthumously. Apart from the Imperial Family, only six Japanese citizens have ever been decorated with the collar in their lifetimes. Today, only the reigning Emperor holds this dignity as sovereign of the order; however, exceptions are made for foreign heads of state, who can be awarded the collar in friendship.
The grand cordon is the highest possible honor a Japanese citizen can be awarded during his or her lifetime.
The Order of the Chrysanthemum Medal Design
The star of the order is similar to the badge, but in silver, without the chrysanthemum suspension, and with an eight-pointed gilt medallion (with white-enameled rays and red-enameled sun disc) placed at the center. It is worn on the left chest.
The badge of the order is a four-pointed gilt badge with white-enameled rays; the center bears a red enameled sun disc. On each of the four corners of the badge is a yellow-enameled chrysanthemum blossom with green-enameled chrysanthemum leaves. The badge is suspended on a yellow-enameled chrysanthemum, either on the collar or on the grand cordon.
The collar of the order is made of gold, and features the kanji for “Meiji”, in classic form, indicating the era of the order’s establishment. It is decorated with gold chrysanthemum blossoms and green-enameled leaves. The sash of the grand cordon of the order is red with dark blue border stripes. It is worn on the right shoulder.
