Beautiful Japanese flag

[Adrian]

You will need to store it in archival type materials. It is correct that over time a regular cardboard tube may cause premature aging to your flag. Roll it in acid free paper.

If you're going to display it the behind glass would be the best option but again, be careful what materials are used and keep it away from the sunlight, use UV proof glass. Any sunlight will cause fading over time, even non direct.

[Stu W]

If the signatures are good then you have found yourself a little gem. Short term (couple months) rolling it up loosely on an uncolored cardboard tube won't hurt it but acid free is always better. If it is soft it's likely silk but could also be Rayon. Rayon is often referred to as false silk. Don't fold cloth unless it's the only option available to you.

Archival framing will involve having it sew across the top and part way down each side onto an unbleached muslin backing followed by insertion into acid free framing materials. You will also want to have a small gap between the glass and the cloth. Archival framing will run you 10X the cost of the flag but well worth it if the flag is a gem and you want it to last.

Interestingly enough you don't have to go to a specialty framing shop to have it done. The Michael's franchise often has sales of up to 60% off their custom framing orders and that's the time to get it done. Here are a couple photos (photoshop) depicting color combinations they have available. These are provided courtesy of a friend of mine, Tim B, over on WAF.

Regards,
Stu

[jonobo]

I asked the seller if it wasn't troublesome to find out who brought it home and when, but all I got for an answer was "?????????????????????" as if they did not understand English or something. Even though they live in Pennsylvania...Guess that I can't go that route.

[DeLuxxe]

Nice flag!

[jonobo]

Ok I got an actual answer from the seller "The flag was brought home by my husbands father. He was discharged from the navy in 46 I think so thats probably when he brought it home. He was on the destroyer escort Ray K Edwards. That's all my husband knows about the flag."
I'm not sure if this is helpful in any way but I think it's good to know a little history on the flag!