This tool used by sumo referees (gyoji 行司) is called a "gunbai 軍配." It is written as "Tenka Taihei 天下泰平". The "gunbai" in sumo is a tool used by referees to instruct wrestlers during the initial charge and to determine the outcome of a match. In sumo, the "gunbai" is a large wooden fan-shaped board with a handle on one end and a white cloth or hand towel attached to it. "天下泰平" in Japanese means "peace and stability throughout the nation." In sumo matches, when the time limit is reached, the referee flips the gunbai over and assumes a posture to start the bout. If the outcome of the match is unclear after the wrestlers have engaged, the referee stands in the center of the ring and uses the gunbai to declare the winner. The gunbai is pointed towards one of the wrestlers, indicating the direction of the winner. A cloth with the wrestler's name is attached to the gunbai, and the direction it points determines the winner. The gunbai is a fan-shaped tool that was once used by military commanders for directing battles, hence its name. It is also known as "gunbai uchiwa" or simply "uchiwa." It is traditionally made of materials like iron, leather, or wood, shaped like a fan, decorated with symbols like the sun, moon, or the twenty-eight constellations, and coated with black lacquer. The gunbai is also popular as a decorative item for celebrating prosperity in business or the birth of a son. Width 23.2 cm Depth 2.2 cm Height 42.3 cm String length 180 cm Weight 390 kg Condition: It is in good condition, but there are signs of use such as scratches, dirt, abrasions, and peeling. The main body is made of wood, so there may be some discoloration. There are also small scratches and dirt. The rope has bends, cuts, and dirt. I have included many photos, so please take a look. Atention: The items listed for sale are all used collectibles. Please consider them to have signs of aging, such as stains, scratches, scuffs, tears, discoloration, fading, fraying, and changes in thread color. We will post as many photos as possible to make it easy to understand. As these are old items, we appreciate your understanding before making a purchase. Shipping: The lot will be carefully packaged and shipped from Japan. We will use either DHL or FedEx for a safe and secure transportation. It usually takes about 2-3 weeks for delivery, and the package will be shipped with a tracking number. Import duties, taxes, VAT, and any other charges are not included in the item price and shipping cost. Please check your country's import duties before bidding. 042221580426