History of the Order of the Carp

A non-armigerous award created during the reign of Dak and Lao. Membership is awarded by the Queen for excellence in persona development, and was expanded during the reign of Eirik and Meagan to include encampments. It has been given to both individuals and groups for their ability to "stay in persona" on a consistent basis In China, the carp is a symbol of perserverence in the face of adversity. The original token was an embroidered patch (by Lao) 2" x 2" in size, to replicate in miniature the mandarin squares worn by Chinese government and military officials at the end of SCA period. The embroidered patch was later replaced by a square metal token displaying a copper carp leaping over stylized copper waves, against a brass background (simulating the colors and textures of the original embroidery.) The plaque was designed and executed by Uwe Schwartzkopf.