Very Rare Russo Japanese Wall Matryoshka Doll Lacquer Sake Cup Set
This is an extremely rare set of Japanese military sake cups, made of lacquered wood and in the style of Russian matryoshka dolls, except these are sake cups that sit within one another instead of little figures. When laid out (as in the first picture) from smallest to largest the phrase spelled out is "Russo Japanese War Commemoration Cup" and on the outside of the lid are a pair of flags with the words "Banzai". The artisans must have thought this a bit of a play - using Russian dolls technique to make something that commemorates the victory over Russia. I've only ever sold one set before and this is the second one I've encountered.
Condition: The exterior of the box is a bit damaged - please see pictures. The inside cups are in good condition with wear to the bottom of each. I am guessing the cups were displayed but not used because the words on the inside cups are not very faded.
Size: The exterior dimensions are 2.5" across and 2" tall. The cups are of decreasing size.