WW2 Imperial Japanese Army Medical Dept Sake Bottle Tokkuri China Incident

DescriptionWhat is this? This is an Imperial Japanese Army commemorative sake bottle (tokkuri), produced around the time of the China Incident (Second Sino-Japanese War, 1937–1945). Standing about 14.5 cm tall, it was made for soldiers of the Army Medical Department (衛生部). What does it say? The bottle is decorated with embossed floral designs and gilt/enamel motifs. On the body, it reads: 忠節 (Chūsetsu) – Loyalty 礼儀 (Reigi) – Courtesy 武勇 (Buyū) – Valor 信義 (Shingi) – Faith 質素 (Shisso) – Frugality These were the five virtues of the Imperial Japanese soldier. It also bears inscriptions for “China Incident Victory / Triumphal Return” (日支凱旋記念) and the Army Medical Department (衛生部), alongside the iconic five-pointed star (陸軍の五芒星), the symbol of the Imperial Army. Why is it rare? Unlike infantry or artillery units, medical corps items are much scarcer. This is because the Japanese military emphasized the concept of an “honorable death in battle” rather than survival and medical treatment. As a result, fewer commemorative pieces were made for medical personnel, making such bottles highly collectible. Who used it? These bottles were typically commissioned by units and presented as gifts to soldiers returning victorious from campaigns. Sake bottles and cups held a special place in Japanese military culture — drinking together symbolized loyalty, unity, and remembrance of fallen comrades. This tradition explains why so many war-related commemoratives took the form of sake vessels. When and Where? Produced in Japan circa late 1930s–early 1940s, during the expansion into China. This bottle directly connects to the China Incident, a critical conflict that escalated into the broader Pacific War. Condition Approx. 14.5 cm tall Light wear and aging consistent with use and age Mouth rim shows a chip, but gold and enamel decorations remain visible Why collect it? This piece embodies both the propaganda and the emotional world of the Japanese soldier. For collectors of WW2 militaria, particularly medical corps items, it is a rare and historically rich artifact. 👉 Own a piece of history.Shipping Worldwide Shipping International e packetDelivery Time:approximate 7-21days(To USA)With Tracking Number & NO Insurance International Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. Please check with your country's customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to bidding or buying..main1 .main1 p,.main1 span .main1 h1 .main1 h2 .main1 p,.main1 div .margin-bottom_change h2