An authentic original Japanese Imperial Military Sake Cup (Gunpai) from the early to mid-20th century. This historic porcelain piece features a detailed illustration of a heavy artillery cannon, crossed national and Rising Sun flags, the Army star motif, and gold kanji inscriptions.

[ Historical Background of Japanese Military Sake Cups ] During the Meiji, Taisho, and early Showa eras (late 19th century to WWII), it was a cherished tradition in Japan for soldiers to receive or custom-order commemorative porcelain sake cups upon completion of their military service (Tainei Kinen) or return from active duty.

These cups served as deeply personal mementos of a soldier's honorable service. They were custom-crafted with specific unit names, regional fortresses, branch insignia, flags, and personal surnames. Upon returning home, soldiers would gather with family and neighbors, using these cups to drink sake while celebrating their safe return and sharing stories from the front. Today, these military sake cups are highly valued by collectors worldwide as historical artifacts that capture the personal heritage, military history, and traditional craftsmanship of Imperial Japan.

[ Item Details ]

Vintage Antique Condition (Has One Chip / Minor Wear)Structure: There is one small chip on the rim (please see detailed photos). No hair-line cracks detected.Surface: Shows expected vintage character including gold paint fading, surface paint wear, and light age-related spots/discoloration.Summary: An authentic original military artifact with clear detail. Please inspect all close-up photographs carefully to assess the condition.