Decorations and awards of the Grand Duchy of Oldenburg from 1813-1918

In the 19^th century, decorations were of great importance as a means to represent and safeguard power. Sovereigns would distribute decorations as a means of indicating favor. By presenting honor awards in public, the close connection to authority was demonstrated to the people.

After the end of the French occupation, Jever was reorganized under the duchy of Oldenburg. The awarding of decorations was commonly used an an important means of strengthening the connection of the subjects to the sovereign. Duke Peter Friedrich Ludwig donated the first award, a decoration for loyalty during the time of French occupation. His son Paul Friedrich August (gov. 1829-1853) laid more stress on diplomacy and ceremony. In 1838 he donated the decoration for service.

During the 19^th century the system of decorations became more and more developed, covering all classes of society. Next to decorations for the military and for administration officials, there were also awards for contributions made to art and culture and for rescue from danger. Decorations for servants can be found as well as military decorations.

The enormous stock of decorations of Oldenburg were given to the museum by Friedhelm Beyreiß as a permanent loan. This collection is a unique source of cultural history in Europe due to its completeness.
(Übersetzung: Isabella Erb)