Gourd-shaped bottle
Date19th century
Maker
Japanese
Label TextThe gourd is a perennial favorite in Chinese and Japanese design and carries several auspicious meanings. It makes a natural vessel when hollowed out and thus serves as a symbol of abundance. The gourd's curling vines and twining tendrils on this Nabeshima bottle imply the continuity of successive generations, while its many seeds suggest fertility.
Object number60.32
Published ReferencesFuller, Richard E. "Japanese Art in the Seattle Art Museum: An Historical Sketch." Seattle, WA: Seattle Art Museum, 1960 ("Presented in commemoration of the Hundredth Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between Japan and the United States of America"), no. 157Credit LineEugene Fuller Memorial Collection
Dimensions6 11/16 x 13 5/8 x 11/16 in. (17 x 1.8 x 34.6cm)
MediumPorcelain with underglaze
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