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. Solid brass, electro-plated with non-tarnishing silver finish, giclee print. 1.5 x 3.5" Packaged in an acetate sleeve with provenance card.