France Order of the Palmes Academiques

[Bison]

Very nice ! It is a superb medal of Officier de l'Instruction Publique.

Just a remark.

The Order of the Palmes Acad?miques exists only from 1955. Before that date, from 1808 to 1955, it was just a distinction for teachers and professors. A sort of university distinction, let's say.

The two ranks (and not degree or grade) were 'Officier des acad?mies' and 'Officier d'Universit?'. At the very beginning they were embroided on the academic gown. During the Second Republic, in 1848 - 1852, the first medals appeared hanging on a purple ribbon (and the professor's gowns disappeared). At this period, the wording of the ranks changed to 'Officier d'acad?mie' and 'Officier de l'Instruction Publique'.

In 1955 the Palmes Acad?miques were organized as an Order, with three degrees : Chevalier, Officier and Commandeur. It is only after this date that we can consider it as a real Order. At this occasion, the badge changed, and is only constituted of two palms (Christophe showed an example).

However it is the second most ancient distinction instituted by Napoleon still active in France with the L?gion d'honneur.

Regards

Biosn

[ccj]

Why do we see soldiers wearing this decoration?

[Paul L Murphy]

Why do we see soldiers wearing this decoration?

They sometimes get it if they have contributed a work of military literature. It is quite a kudos for them to have it since it is not a normal military decoration.

[speedytop]

Hi,

this is another piece in the wide range of varieties.

Edited December 24, 2008 by speedytop

[speedytop]

Reverse

No maker marks

Uwe

[palencia]

Why do we see soldiers wearing this decoration?

An example: Sylvain Raynal, the defender of fort Vaux (Verdun)

[Veteran]

Very nice badge of an "Officier de l'Instruction publique", the higher grade as established circa 1866 by Napoleon III for wear as a decoration.

This one seems to be gilt silver and emblished with glass or cabochon "fruit" to the laurels.

As stated earlier on this forum, it was quite a distinction, for a long time the only award available with the Legion of honor at the top level and life-saving medals.

In some instances, they could even be made in gold (eagle head hallmark) with small garnets or even rubies.

You will have noticed that the enamel of the stems has disappeared in parts on both sides : these badges were worn extensively before 1914 and quite often at functions later on.

The Officier d'Acad?mie and Officer de l'Instruction publique grades became Chevalier and Officier de l'Ordre des Palmes acad?miques later. They were called "Officiers" since, at the vey start of the institution by Napoleon 1st, they were honorable "officers of the French University system". Before Napoleon III, the badges were embroidered on the academic dress.

Your badge is a very nice one indeed. Probably 1910-1960, possibly earlier.

Regards

Veteran

Edited December 25, 2008 by Veteran