what is russian imperial order st vladimir
The Order of St. Vladimir was a Russian Imperial order of merit, established by Catherine the Great on 3 September (22 August Old Style) 1782. It was named after Vladimir the Great, the Grand Prince of Kyiv who Christianized Rus’ in 988. It was the fourth-highest order in the Russian Empire, ranking below the Orders of St. Andrew, St. Alexander Nevsky, and St. Anne in some periods, though its precedence shifted over time, and above the Order of St. George in terms of civil honors. In practice, it was one of the most commonly awarded orders for both civil and military service.
Purpose and recipients
It rewarded long and distinguished service to the state, bravery in battle, and contributions in civil administration, science, and culture. It could be given to Russian subjects and to foreigners.
Classes
The order had four classes:
- 1st class: a sash worn over the right shoulder, with a breast star
- 2nd class: a neck badge with a breast star
- 3rd class: a neck badge
- 4th class: a smaller badge worn on the chest
