The gourd shape of this Edo period sake bottle was considered auspicious, in part because of Chinese myth, and also because it was the symbol of Hideyoshi Toyotomi, a general who unified Japan's warring states. The water gourd was the sign for his army. A big gourd was tied upside down to the top of his flag-pole. After each victory additional small gourds were added.
- finish: solid brass, electro-plated with non-tarnishing silver finish
- giclee print
- dimensions: approx. 1.5 w x 3.75 l
- packaged in an acetate sleeve with provenance card