In 1897, King Gojong brought an end to the Joseon Dynasty by declaring himself Emperor Gojong, founder of the Daehan Empire. This transition necessitated many changes in rank and title, and decrees that bestowed a new title to an emperor or empress were rendered on gold-plated sheets, reflecting the rise in status and authority. King Gojong’s second son, who would later become Emperor Sunjong, was installed as crown prince at the age of two, but his status was elevated when his father founded the Daehan Empire. This gold-plated decree officially commemorates the crown prince’s new title.