WW2 Imperial Japanese 1000 Stitch Belt (Senninbari 千人針)

Original WWII Japanese 1000 Stitch Belt (Senninbari 千人針)

Historical Context

The Senninbari (千人針), or “1000 Stitch Belt,” is a significant and symbolic artifact from Imperial Japan during World War II. These belts were created as talismans of protection and good fortune for Japanese soldiers heading into battle. The tradition behind the Senninbari dates back to the First Sino-Japanese War and continued through World War II.

Each belt was hand-sewn with a thousand individual stitches, typically by women in the soldier’s life—mothers, sisters, wives, or community members. The belief was that each stitch, made with care and prayer, would confer protection upon the wearer, guarding them against harm in battle. The act of creating and wearing a Senninbari was deeply rooted in the cultural values of loyalty, sacrifice, and communal support prevalent in Japan during this era.

This particular belt features the phrase “一億一心” (Ichioku isshin), which translates to “100 million hearts beating as one.” This slogan was widely used during the war to promote national unity and the idea of collective sacrifice among the Japanese population. It reflects the intense patriotism and sense of duty that permeated Japanese society at the time.

Additionally, the belt bears a red ink stamp (hanko), which is a traditional Japanese seal used to indicate authenticity or ownership. The stamp likely includes the name or location of the person or group who made the belt, adding to its historical and personal significance.

This authentic WWII Japanese 1000 Stitch Belt (Senninbari) is an exceptional piece of military history. The belt is meticulously crafted from durable fabric, with each of the thousand stitches still visible and intact. The centered inscription “一億一心” is framed by a red-stitched border, adding a striking contrast to the cream-colored fabric.

Dimensions: Approximately 13 x 34 inches (Metric conversion: 33.02 x 86.36 cm).

Condition: The belt is well-preserved given its age, with some wear and discoloration, consistent with its use during the war. The fabric has remained sturdy, and the craftsmanship is evident in the detailed stitching and preserved ink stamp.

This Senninbari is a valuable addition to any collection of Japanese militaria or World War II memorabilia. It serves as a poignant reminder of the cultural traditions, the collective spirit, and the sacrifices made by those involved in the war.

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.

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