The Order of Arts and Letters was established in
l957 to recognize eminent
artists and
writers, and people who have contributed significantly to furthering the arts in
France and throughout the
world. Previous to the creation of this Order, artists and writers could be
officially recognized only through the
Legion of Honor, (and that in limited numbers), or the
Order of Academic Palms, if they were connected with
education.
Recipients of this distinction receive a certificate from the French Minister of Culture and Communication and are entitled to wear the insignia of this order, a medal suspended from a colored ribbon of white stripes against a green background. For informal occasions, a discreet lapel pin may be worn in lieu of the medal.
American recipients of the medal of the Order of Arts and Letters include Paul Auster, Ornette Coleman, Marilyn Horne, Richard Meier, Robert Paxton, Robert Redford, and Meryl Streep.
Source: Cultural Services of the French Embassy.