Under either interpretation, the item for sale is Japanese, original, antique and rare. Moreover, this piece is signed, per the photograph on the underside of the neck/collar of the item, showing the old Japanese block lettering. The dimensions are shown on the photographs at 5 1/8" by 2 5/8", with a weight of 168 grams 5.9 oz.
Per my scale at home. If you have any questions whatsoever, just let me know. Many thanks and best regards. Tucker Dewey in Memphis, TN, currently a grandpa and retired attorney.