This is an antique Japanese military sake cup, decorated with a pair of flags and a cherry blossom with the word "congratulation" written inside it. The words are "Taisho 16th Year Entering Service Farewell Commemoration". This is unusual in two ways - there was no Taisho 16, as the emperor died in Taisho 15 and the next year became Showa 1. The emperor Taisho died in late December - this cup was probably made right before new year anticipating the next year, but then, the emperor died and so it was no longer useful. The other unusual thing was of course that this was for entering service, rather than finishing service as is usually the case. I'm actually surprised we don't see more of these normally.

Condition: Mint

Size: 3" across