The Order of Ouissam Alaouite Commander Neck Ribbon Order is a significant Moroccan honor with deep historical roots and an intricate design. Order of Ouissam Alaouite (Commander Neck Ribbon).
Established: 11 January 1913.
Founded by: Sultan Yusuf.
Sovereign: King Mohammed VI (current custodian).
Royal House: Alaouite.
Religious Affiliation: Islam.
Purpose:
Recognizes heroism in combat or meritorious service to the Moroccan state.
Awarded for both civil and military achievements.
Design and Features
Dimensions:
Height: 84.86 mm (inclusive of the wreath and ball suspension).
Width: 58.03 mm.
Suspension:
Features a wreath and a laterally pierced ball suspension.
Materials:
Silver, with fine enamel work.
Ribbon:
Worn around the neck, typically in orange or pumpkin-colored fabric, with the addition of white stripes post-1934.
Historical Context
Original Version (First Type):
Initially included the Arabic inscription:
"There is no other God but Allah and Mohamed is His Prophet."
This reflected its strong Islamic and Moroccan identity.
Second Type (Post-Protectorate Adjustments):
After Morocco became a French/Spanish Protectorate, the inscription was removed to make the order more inclusive.
This change allowed the decoration to be awarded to Christian recipients, predominantly French colonial troops and other foreign allies.
Significance
Civil and Military Merit:
The order was established to reward individuals for their loyalty to the Moroccan throne and military achievements.
Highlights Morocco's ability to honor contributors across both local and international spheres.
Religious and Political Evolution:
The removal of the original inscription symbolizes Morocco’s adaptation under colonial influence and the order’s broader reach during that period.
Condition and Preservation
Enamel:
The condition of the enamel, as noted, is crucial for understanding the medal's state. Damaged enamel can detract from its visual and historical integrity but may also tell a story of the item's usage and history. Please refer to the pictures.
The second type of the medal, as described, holds historical significance due to its transition period from an Islamic-exclusive honor to one that accommodated recipients of various faiths.