A Japanese bronze portable brush and ink case (yatate) in the form of a double gourd. The yatate was a popular device for wealthy gentlemen to carry tucked into their obi belt, should the need arise to write a brief note. The stem of the gourd unscrewing to reveal itself as the shaft of the brush, and allowing access to the interior ink and reservoir. The body with a small ring for attachment. The double gourd’s abundant seeds making it a popular symbol of fecundity and abundance.
Edo Period (1600-1868)
4” long
