This original Imperial Japanese Army sake cup dates to the World War II era and features finely hand-painted details with vivid gold and enamel accents. The central design includes a large five-pointed gold army star above a pair of crossed flags—one with gilt decoration, the other stylized in dark red. A blooming cherry blossom is painted in pink and green enamel, symbolizing sacrifice and the ephemeral nature of life in Japanese military culture. Surrounding the motif are neatly inscribed kanji characters reading “Yokosuka Garrison – 14th Infantry Regiment – Commemoration of Service” (横重 – 第十四歩兵聯隊 – 記念). The reverse of the cup bears a simple artisan's mark in gold. The 14th Infantry Regiment was a unit of the Imperial Japanese Army that traces its roots to the late 19th century and was stationed at Yokosuka, a key military port south of Tokyo. During the lead-up to and throughout WW2, units stationed at Yokosuka were heavily involved in training, coastal defense, and deployments to occupied territories across East and Southeast Asia. Sake cups like this were traditionally presented to soldiers upon enlistment, promotion, or demobilization and served as a personal memento of military service. The inclusion of the sakura flower and the golden flags reflect both patriotic devotion and the honor associated with service in the Emperor’s army. This piece offers a tangible link to the personal experience of a Japanese soldier and the broader wartime culture of the Imperial Army. At VDG Militaria, we are dedicated to providing collectors with an exceptional selection of original military antiques. Our passion for history and commitment to authenticity ensure that every item we offer is thoroughly researched, accurately described, and meticulously photographed. Whether you are a seasoned collector or new to the world of militaria, our curated inventory includes a diverse range of artifacts from various periods and conflicts. From uniforms and insignia to medals and equipment, we aim to connect you with pieces that tell the stories of the past. Our expertise and attention to detail mean you can trust that every item you purchase is genuine and precisely represented. Customer satisfaction is our top priority, and we strive to make your collecting experience as seamless and enjoyable as possible. If you have any inquiries or need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. Using the Offer Feature We are pleased to offer a "Make an Offer" feature on our website, allowing you to negotiate the price of items that catch your eye. Once you submit an offer, expect an email from us shortly after. If your offer is accepted, the email will include a special payment link for your convenience. Please check your spam folder if you have strict email filters. We promise to respond to all offers as quickly as possible. If you do not hear from us within one business day, feel free to reach out directly via phone or text at the contact information below to ensure your request is promptly addressed. Contact Us For the fastest response, we recommend reaching out via email or text. We typically reply to emails and text messages the quickest. 📧 Email: vdgmilitaria@yahoo.com
📱 Phone/Text: 651-968-3882 Thank you for visiting VDG Militaria. We wish you happy collecting and look forward to helping you find the perfect addition to your collection.