Imperial Guard Sake Cup

From the Collection: A commemorative cup for a member of the elite of the Imperial Japanese Army

One famous image of the soldiers of Emperor Hirohito in the Second World War is of the ritual consumption of sake before battle. In order to consume the drink both for this and for pleasure a distinctive style of cup existed, and was often provided as a commemorative item to soldiers in a dizzying array of styles.

Seen from above, the wreathed star of the Imperial Guards is visible, along with half of the Emperor’s Chrysanthemum seal

The cup seen here is of typical porcelain construction, but also has a distinctive gold colored foil inlay to its design, making it both reflective and attractive. The emblem of the elite Imperial Guards, consisting on the star if the Imperial Army surrounded by a wreath, is prominently featured, alongside half of the Mon, the Chrysanthemum seal of the Emperor.

Kanji markings on the underside of the cup, concealed within its base

A cup of this type is typical of those issued or purchased as commemorative items during the war, although its large size and metal leaf inlay make it stand out among the thousands of other cup designs known to exist today.