History

The Decoration of the Purple Ribbon was created in 1815, and was awarded by the Duchess of Angoulême. It is sometimes called the Decoration of Rouen.

It was awarded to royal volunteers from Rouen in recognition of their devotion to the monarchy.

The obverse inscription translates to “Virtue, Courage, Heroism,” and the reverse inscription translates to “Pledge to the Union.”

There is no official text outlining the design or display of the Decoration, and as a result, there may be numerous versions. The following variables may be encountered on the Decoration: size; composition; ribbon; laurel wreath; suspension.

There is limited information regarding this item.