The previous owner's grandfather was a soldier in Japan and brought it back to the US during World War II, not much history is known about it. It's said to be original since being brought back, having never been modified. The estimated age is being determined as pre-WWII era as Japan had extreme resource issues from early 1930's onward so it's likely 1930's or earlier. Obviously hand carved, there's a odd laquer type coating on it that gives it the red look, there's some age-related cracking that's primarily to the neck area. Comes from a Smoke Free and Pet-Free home. Shipping/Payments: Payment is expected within 3 days of auction/listing end. Combined shipping is avaliable, requests for combined shipping on 'free shipping' items may sometimes result in the price of the item to be lowered if applicable. International Shipping: It's your responsibility to know your custom laws, I am not responsible for additional custom fees, violation of importation laws and/or most other problems that may occur at (non-US) customs.