Bottle in the shape of a double gourd

Period: Qing dynasty (1644–1911)

Date: 19th century

Culture: China

Medium: Carnelian

Dimensions: H. 6 13/16 in. (17.3 cm); H. with stand 8 1/4 in. (21 cm); Diam. 6 in. (15.2 cm)

Classification: Hardstone

Credit Line: Alfred W. Hoyt Collection, Bequest of Rosina H. Hoppin, 1965

Accession Number: 65.86.64a–c

Description

The double gourd holds considerable appeal among the Chinese. In addition to its peculiar shape, it is associated with the fantasy world: immortals and legendary figures are believed to use double gourds to carry medicines with magic power. Numerous baby gourds hanging from a single vine, as shown on this bottle, allude to multiple offspring and a continuation of the family line.

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