Brass bowl from Japan?

Description:

This is a small brass bowl, approximately 4.5 inches in diameter and 2 inches tall, featuring engraved symbols on its exterior. Based on your description and the accompanying historical context, the bowl may have origins linked to Japan, potentially crafted as a sake bowl or ceremonial item. The craftsmanship and markings suggest it could date to the 1946–1948 post-WWII period, coinciding with your father’s service in Japan, New Guinea, and the Philippines.

History and Context:

During the post-WWII period, many Japanese artifacts, including sake cups and bowls, were crafted as functional or ceremonial items. Brass bowls like this were sometimes engraved with symbols or family crests (kamon), and others bore commemorative markings. The markings on this bowl could represent a family emblem, a military insignia, or a specific event or purpose (e.g., a celebratory or ceremonial item).

Your father’s meticulous record-keeping (noting "sake cups") suggests he valued this piece, possibly collecting it as a personal memento during his deployment.

Distinguishing Features:

• Material: Brass, with signs of wear and patina consistent with age.
• Symbols: Engravings appear to be Japanese in origin, possibly kanji or a crest (kamon). The symbols may indicate the maker, region, or purpose.
• Condition: The bowl is in good condition, with minor wear and discoloration typical of vintage brass items.

Current Value:

While not rare, this type of brass bowl holds value for its historical and cultural significance, especially if tied to Japan’s post-war era. Without more detailed identification of the symbols or provenance, the value remains approximate:

• Market Value: $50–$150 USD (depending on historical verification and symbolic significance).
• Cultural/Family Value: Significant, as it represents a direct connection to your father’s time in service.

Recommendations for Next Steps:

1. Professional Appraisal:
   • To better understand the markings and confirm its origin, consult a professional appraiser or expert in Asian antiques. Specialists in Japanese art or military memorabilia can identify the symbols and provide a more accurate valuation.
   • Reach out to organizations such as:
     • American Society of Appraisers (ASA)
     • International Society of Appraisers (ISA)
2. Symbol Research:
   • Consider showing the engraved symbols to a specialist in Japanese calligraphy or a historian with expertise in WWII-era artifacts.
3. Preservation:
   • Avoid abrasive cleaning, as the patina contributes to its historical authenticity. Store in a cool, dry place to prevent tarnishing.
4. Historical Context:
   • Cross-reference the piece with similar WWII-era artifacts to uncover possible ceremonial or military connections.