The Medal Litteris et Artibus
The Medal Litteris et Artibus, left obverse and right reverse. Photo: Jonas Borg/Kungl. Hovstaterna
The Medal Litteris et Artibus was instituted in 1853 by Crown Prince Carl (XV). ‘Litteris et Artibus’ is Latin for ‘for Literature and Art’. The medal is awarded in recognition of outstanding artistic contributions, mainly within the fields of music, theatrical performance and literature.
The medal is usually awarded on the Karl name day (January 28 ) and on the Gustav name day (June 6).
The medal is awarded in gold (gold-plated silver) in 8th size, and is worn on the chest on a royal blue ribbon (in special cases, it has been awarded in the riband of the Order of the Seraphim).
On the obverse (front) of the medal is the reigning monarch’s bust portrait, and on the reverse (back) is the inscription Litteris et Artibus surrounded by an open laurel wreath (see image above).
The Medal Litteris et Artibus, detail showing name and year of recipient on the rim of the medal. Photo: Jonas Borg/Kungl. Hovstaterna