Silk flag, approximately 91x67cm. Some staining and discolouration, overall in very good condition. Inscribed with messages/signatures by friends, family and possibly members of the platoon, as well as an English inscription in red centre “Surrender of Hong Kong, August 30th, 1945”, 1945.
During the 2nd World War it was common practice for friends and family to present a departing soldier with a ‘Hinomaru’ flag and inscribe it with signatures radiating around the central red sun with messages of support and good fortune. These flags were often blessed by a Shintoist priest before they were given to the soldier they could be kept in a pocket and might come in handy as a sling or bandage. This particular example has the additional inscription “Surrender of Hong Kong, August 30th, 1945”. The flag had been captured by a British soldier in Hong Kong on August 15th 1945. A poignant/iconic item.
