Antique Japanese Gumbai, war fan. It was used mainly as a signaling device during war. Today, they are most often seen in use by Sumo referees. Meiji period (1868-1912). Inscribed with the Hachimandaibosatsu, in the same style of caligraphy as the Tsuruoka shrine in Kamakura. It may have been a shrine offering or a decoration in the shrine. White bronze with pewter or silver handle. Exactly the same fan sold: private collection http://www.gougoujp.com/auc/item/l332429874