Japanese Army Meiji Era Dress Shako, NCO?

Original era manufacture. An example of a scarce Meiji Era (1869-1912) French inspired black leather shako. This is only the second example we have ever offered on our site, and is unique with the red lacquer banding around the body of the Shako. This perhaps may indicate an NCO or perhaps higher rank.Missing from the front of the shako is the large brass sunburst insignia, the chinstrap leather is missing, however the attaching buttons remain. Wide leather sweatband with portions of the cloth inner lining remaining.