Description
Flag semaphore is the telegraphy system conveying information at a distance by means of visual signals with hand-held flags, rods, disks, paddles, or occasionally bare or gloved hands. Information is encoded by the position of the flags; it is read when the flag is in a fixed position. Semaphores were adopted and widely used (with hand-held flags replacing the mechanical arms of shutter semaphores) in the maritime world in the 19th century. It is still used during underway replenishment at sea and is acceptable for emergency communication in daylight or using lighted wands instead of flags, at night.
The Japanese Navy adapted the flag semaphore system to the Japanese language. Because their writing system involves a syllabary of about twice the number of characters in the Latin alphabet, most characters take two displays of the flags to complete; others need three and a few only one. The flags are specified as a solid white square for the left hand and a solid red one for the right. The display motions chosen are not like the “rotary dial” system used for the Latin alphabet letters and numbers; rather, the displays represent the angles of the brush strokes used in writing in the katakana syllabary and in the order drawn. For example, the character for “O” [?], which is drawn first with a horizontal line from left to right, then a vertical one from top to bottom, and finally a slant between the two; follows that form and order of the arm extensions. It is the right arm, holding the red flag, which moves as a pen would, but in mirror image so that the observer sees the pattern normally. As in telegraphy, the katakana syllabary is the one used to write down the messages as they are received. Also, the Japanese system presents the number 0 by moving flags in a circle, and those from 1 through 9 using a sort of the “rotary dial” system, but different from that used for European languages.
Manufactured in a lightweight woven cotton and wood, this matching pair is in EXCELLENT original used condition! Both flags retain their original red and white cloth panels, with NO holes, tears, repairs, or serious damage. There is some normal staining, light fading, and age-related discoloration consistent with wartime use and storage, but the fabric remains intact and surprisingly well preserved. Both original wooden handles are complete, solid, and undamaged. Each flag carries matching Japanese markings, including the same ownership or identification markings on both pieces, with one marking appearing to read “Shiozawa.” The set remains complete with its original lightweight cloth carrying case, made from the same or a very similar woven material as the flags themselves. Everything present is 100% ORIGINAL wartime Japanese manufacture. A VERY RARE opportunity to acquire a complete matched semaphore signaling set with its original case, ideal for any advanced Imperial Japanese Navy, naval communications, or WW2 Japanese collection!
