Collar of the Order of Saint Michael

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Collar of the Order of Saint Michael is a distinguished part of the regalia associated with the Order of Saint Michael, a chivalric order founded by King Louis XI of France in 1469. The Order was established to serve as a counterbalance to the Burgundian Order of the Golden Fleece. Over the centuries, it has been bestowed upon numerous nobles, heads of state, and other individuals of high esteem within the realms of France and, at times, beyond its borders.

History

The Order of Saint Michael was created to honor and reward loyal services to the French crown, with its members, known as knights, receiving various insignia, including the prestigious collar. The collar of the Order of Saint Michael is not only a symbol of membership but also serves as a physical representation of the knight's commitment to the ideals and duties associated with the Order.

Design

The design of the collar has evolved over time but traditionally features a series of gold links. These links are often shaped as shells (a symbol of pilgrimage and protection) and other motifs associated with Saint Michael, such as dragons, which reference the saint's role as a dragon slayer in Christian tradition. The centerpiece of the collar is a pendant depicting Saint Michael defeating the dragon, embodying the fight against evil and protection of the Christian faith.

Ceremonial Use

The collar is worn during official ceremonies and significant events related to the Order. It is draped over the shoulders of the knight, signifying their allegiance to the Order and the values it upholds. The wearing of the collar is strictly governed by the Order's protocols, reflecting the wearer's status and role within this historic institution.

Significance

Beyond its ceremonial use, the collar of the Order of Saint Michael symbolizes the deep historical and cultural heritage of France. It represents a lineage of honor, bravery, and service to the greater good, ideals that have transcended the centuries since the Order's inception. The collar, and the Order more broadly, are emblematic of the chivalric values that played a central role in the social and political life of early modern Europe.

Current Status

While the Order of Saint Michael is no longer bestowed as frequently as it once was, the collar remains a powerful symbol of the Order's legacy. It is preserved as a part of France's national treasures and is occasionally displayed in exhibitions related to the country's monarchical and military history.