This is a theory I've not heard before ... and doubt whether anyone else has.
"honour" ..... "bestowed" ......"primary chef"..... sorry this is a bit of a fantasy!
It is not the first time I have been accused of living in a "fantasy". lol.
I understand the brigade de cuisine and your post is correct. However, the "award ceremony" I previously described is both accurate and real.
As part owner of a Michelin restaurant in Japan over two years (until 2 months ago) I was invited (twice) to celebrate exemplary skill and dedication in the kitchen. The purpose of these "functions" was to allow the "chef" to award their most prized underling the "status" of "chef". The "award" was framed and all.
My business partner (there was the chef, myself and another) informed me that the purpose of the exercise was twofold:
a) Keep staff motivated
b) Stop said gifted "chef" from leaving
FYI, "awards" were also given to other talented staff.
Both occasions were fantastic!