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, giclee print. Packaged Recycled PETE Plastic Sleeve with Provenance Card