International Commission for Orders of Chivalry

Coat of arms of the International Commission on Orders of Chivalry

International Commission for Orders of Chivalry (ICOC) is an international body that plays a crucial role in the study and evaluation of chivalry orders and their legitimacy. Established in 1960, the ICOC aims to ensure that the principles and traditions of historical knighthood are maintained and respected in contemporary orders of chivalry. The commission is recognized for its comprehensive registry of orders it deems as historically and legally legitimate.

History

The ICOC was founded as a response to the increasing number of self-styled and unregulated orders of chivalry emerging in the 20th century. Its creation was motivated by the need to protect the integrity and heritage of historical orders of knighthood from dilution and misrepresentation. The commission's foundation was supported by experts in chivalric history, heraldry, and nobility from various countries, who sought to establish clear criteria for the recognition of legitimate orders.

Function and Criteria

The primary function of the ICOC is to assess and recognize orders of chivalry, using a set of criteria that includes historical continuity, the legitimacy of the fons honorum (the source of honor), and adherence to traditional chivalric principles. The commission reviews the history, structure, and activities of orders to determine their legitimacy and relevance to the historical traditions of chivalry.

• Historical Continuity: The order must have a clear and traceable lineage back to its original foundation, maintaining its traditions and objectives.
• Legitimacy of Fons Honorum: The order must be created or officially recognized by a legitimate authority, such as a sovereign state or a reigning monarch.
• Adherence to Chivalric Principles: The order must demonstrate a commitment to the ideals of chivalry, including honor, bravery, and service to others.

Registry of Orders

The ICOC maintains a registry of orders it recognizes as legitimate. This registry is a valuable resource for scholars, historians, and individuals interested in the field of chivalry and heraldry. It includes both sovereign orders, such as those under the patronage of reigning monarchs, and non-sovereign orders that have been recognized for their historical significance and adherence to chivalric principles.

Impact and Recognition

The work of the ICOC is widely respected in the field of heraldry and chivalric studies. Its registry and the criteria it sets for recognition are considered authoritative by many governments, heraldic authorities, and chivalric organizations. The commission's efforts have helped to preserve the integrity of historical orders of chivalry and ensure that new orders adhere to established chivalric traditions.

Challenges and Criticisms

Despite its respected status, the ICOC faces challenges and criticisms. Some argue that its criteria for recognition are too rigid or subjective, potentially excluding worthy orders that do not meet all the traditional requirements. Others question the authority of the ICOC to make determinations about the legitimacy of orders of chivalry.

Conclusion

The International Commission for Orders of Chivalry plays a vital role in the preservation and recognition of legitimate orders of chivalry. Through its rigorous evaluation process and commitment to historical and chivalric principles, the ICOC helps to maintain the integrity and relevance of these orders in the modern world.

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