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The
Legion d'Honneur
Jpg: medals.napoleonicwars.com
The Legion
d'Honneur is France's
highest decoration. It was created by Napoleon Bonaparte in May 1802
and
first bestowed on July 15, 1804. It is awarded for gallantry in
military
action or twenty years distinguished service in military or civilian
life
for work that enhances the reputation of France through scholarship,
arts,
sciences, politics, etc.
The head of
Napoleon is on the front.
The back is inscribed with the motto HONNEUR. ET. PATRIE (Honor
and
Fatherland) AUSPICE. NEAPOLEONE. GALLIA. RENOVATA.
The
award consists of five classes. In descending order of distinction, they
are:
1. Grand
Cross;
2.
Grand Officer;
3.
Commander;
4.
Officer;
5.
Chevalier (Knight)
John Singer Sargent was awarded the
medal after winning the the grand prix of the Paris
Exposition
Universal of 1889 and then in 1897 was made an officer. From this
position
he was empowered to make nominations.
In 1904 the award
was given to his
teacher Carolus-Duran
along with his friend Paul
César Helleu.
Notes:
- See the year in
review 1889
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