This Meiji era cloisonne pendant may be the longest held item in our possession - acquired in the 1980s from a Columbia Maryland flea market. Of square, diamond shape, the flag of Imperial Japan appears crossed with a two star version of the American flag tied with a sash where they cross. A fleur-de-lis crown appears above the flags - all on a light blue ground. It is not clear whether the US flag has two stars because it would have been difficult to portray more or if perhaps it was a Naval pennant. The other side portrays a band of alternating yellow cherry blossoms (with red centers) and white stars on a navy blue band over goldstone ground. The enamel pendant in brass fitting with reeded edge. Possibly originally gilt as some facing areas show almost no oxidation of a bright yellow surface in contrast with the nearly completely oxidized, reeded sides. Good condition, minor pitting in the making. The intent or purpose of the pendant is a mystery to us - perhaps a military or diplomatic recognition or maybe an early International Exhibition or World's Fair souvenir? It certainly seems to be squarely 19th century. 11/16 inches (1.75 cm) square. Length 1 1/6 inches (2.7 cm) long including the suspension ring. We usually like to withhold an item until we know more. But after more than 25 years (time does go by quickly), we invite opinions or experiences of others on this topic.

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