This is an original World War II-era Imperial Japanese Army (IJA) porcelain commemorative sake cup, issued to a soldier of the 10th Mountain Artillery Regiment. The interior features a stylized field artillery cannon painted in gold and white enamel with a windswept battle flag behind it, symbolizing martial readiness and regimental pride. The rim is hand-gilded, and the inner inscription reads: 「山砲第十聯隊」(10th Mountain Artillery Regiment), along with 「満期記念」(Service Completion Commemoration), marking the soldier’s honorable discharge after completing his term of enlistment. The base of the cup is signed with the soldier’s name, written in gold kanji.

The 10th Mountain Artillery Regiment was part of Japan’s broader artillery command during the Second Sino-Japanese War and the early years of the Pacific War. Units like this provided mobile fire support to infantry divisions across difficult terrain, particularly in campaigns throughout China and Southeast Asia. Their cannons were often employed in suppressing enemy fortifications, supporting jungle or mountain advances, and defending Japanese strongpoints from Allied counteroffensives.

Sake cups such as this were commonly gifted to soldiers upon completing their term of service or prior to deployment, serving as personal mementos of loyalty and sacrifice. The hand-painted designs and personalized inscriptions reflect the intersection of traditional Japanese artistry and modern military culture during the Showa era.

This example remains in good condition with minimal wear to the gold trim and enamel, displaying the unique style of regimental pride typical of wartime commemorative ware.

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.

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