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DescriptionThis is an original Japanese commemorative sake cup made to celebrate the triumphal return from the Manchurian Incident, with its original wooden presentation box.The front is decorated with stars and a plant motif surrounding the large characters:「振武」 — “Shinbu”“Shinbu” literally conveys the idea of “displaying or upholding martial valor.” In a military context, it expresses the celebration of martial spirit, courage, and military achievement—an especially fitting inscription for a commemorative piece presented after a soldier’s return.The reverse is inscribed:「満洲事變 凱旋記念」
“Manchurian Incident – Triumphal Return Prefecture”The original wooden box is also labeled “Manchurian Incident Triumphal Return Commemorative Cup – Niigata Prefecture.” A period label from a metalware dealer in Tsubame, Niigata, remains inside the box. Tsubame has long been famous in Japan for its metalworking industry.Military Sake Cups in JapanIn Japan, sake cups traditionally carried meanings far beyond drinking. They were presented to commemorate achievements, departures, homecomings, and important milestones.The Japanese military continued this tradition, producing commemorative cups for deployments, triumphant returns, discharges, campaigns, and unit events.This example is particularly interesting because it records not simply a military occasion, but a specific historical event—the Manchurian Incident—together with the triumphant return and Niigata Prefecture, while retaining its original presentation box.The appearance and substantial weight suggest a silver-colored or possibly silver material; however, there is no visible silver hallmark, so the exact metal composition is unknown.More than 90 years later, it survives as a tangible record of how the return of Japanese servicemen from Manchuria was commemorated at home during the early 1930s.Age-related patina, discoloration, scratches, and wear are present.Own a Piece of History.Shipping
FedEx or Japan Post
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