Bubba Job or personal taste.

[John C]

I found this pic for sale on ebay. Not a big deal, however the sword is an interesting configuration. Thanks and credit to Chris (vajo) for identifying the various parts.

 

We often discuss whether or not a particular arrangement of mounts and blade was war-time or post-war. Assuming this pic is indeed period, the sword is a mixture of 1) unlacqured RS ito wrap, 2) type 98 saya, and  3) NCO leather tassel. Maybe he wanted to look more stylish than he could afford?

 

John C.

[dwmc]

Very unusual indeed. Most likely however, just a quirky preference!

[Bruce Pennington]

It sure opens up a different view of these mixed pieces that show up today.
 

Can anyone identify his rank and those wings on his chest?

 

Another thing to keep in mind is that I once read long ago that these photographers had studio swords and weapons for people that did not show up with their own. Even if that were the case, though, I cannot imagine that he would be using a piece together sword.

[SteveM]

It's a promotional photo for a Japanese drama. Not a period photograph. 

 

"The Kamikaze Pilot's Wife" (or, literally, The Wife Who Flew With Her Kamikaze Husband)

 

https://mdpr.jp/news/detail/1495017

 

 

[Bruce Pennington]

Hm.  Then we’re back to square one. Because we don’t know where that rig came from.

[vajo]

Rank looks like So-Cho (Sergeant Major)

 

 

would fit to the tassel. 

Edited December 8 by vajo

[Tensho]

2 hours ago, SteveM said:

It's a promotional photo for a Japanese drama. 

 

 

I was going to say, I have never seen an original "color" photo of Japanese soldiers. 

[Bruce Pennington]

7 hours ago, vajo said:

So-Cho (Sergeant Major)

So, the wardrobe supervisor got the NCO tassel right, at least!

[Hector]

That reminds me of a Japanese dealer who sometimes sells off military props; I think for theater, tv, movies, right-wing old guys who dress up at Yasukuni etc.