Antique Japanese gumbai, war fan. It was sued mainly as a signaling device during war. Today, they are most often seen in use by sumo referees. It measures 21.5" long 11" wide. Meiji 1868-1912. Inscribed with the Hachimandaibosatsu, in the same style of calligraphy as the Tsuruoka shrine in Kamakura. It may have been as shrine offering or a decoration in the shrine. Made of white bronze with a pewter or silver handle.