The Medal Litteris et Artibus
The Medal Litteris et Artibus, front to the left and back to the right. Photo: Jonas Borg/Kungl. Hovstaterna
The Medal Litteris et Artibus was instituted in 1853 by Crown Prince Carl (XV). ‘Litteris et Artibus’ is Latin, meaning ‘for Literature and Art’. The medal is conferred in recognition of outstanding artistic achievements, chiefly in the fields of music, performing arts and literature.
The medal is usually conferred on the name day of Karl (28 January ) and on the name day of Gustav (6 June).
The medal is conferred in gold (gilded silver) in the eighth size, and is worn on the chest on a royal blue ribbon (in special cases, it has also been conferred on the ribbon of the Order of the Seraphim).
On the front of the medal is the reigning monarch’s bust portrait, and on the back is the inscription Litteris et Artibus surrounded by an open laurel wreath (see image above).
The Medal Litteris et Artibus, detail showing the recipient’s name and year of conferral on the rim. Photo: Jonas Borg/Kungl. Hovstaterna