Gunbai, A Samurai Command Fan - Edo Period (1603–1868).

JAPAN - Edo Period (1603–1868).
Samurai GUNBAI.
A command fan made of red and gold lacquered wood, openwork and scalloped in shape; it is decorated with squares of mother-of-pearl forming a checkerboard pattern and slightly raised elements that appear to depict stylized paulownia leaves.
Good overall condition, very slight wear.
Dimensions: 48.5 x 22.7 x 1.4 cm.
Sold with its stand.
Dimensions with base: 48.9 x 22.7 x 9 cm.

Notes: The gunbai (軍配) is a rigid fan traditionally used by Japanese military commanders to issue orders and direct the movements of troops on the battlefield. Unlike a folding fan, it takes the form of a wide paddle. It may be adorned with auspicious symbols, crests, or inscriptions.
Having become an emblematic attribute of the samurai and military command, the gunbai is also associated with clan leaders and, later, with sumo referees, who have preserved a ceremonial form of it.