This is a large Yatate 矢立 from the Meiji-Taisho period, approximately 100 to 150 years ago. The ink pot at the tip is hexagonal, and a gourd pattern is carved into it in three dimensions. A bowstring is carved into the top lid. It is very large, measuring over 40cm. A piece of this size is quite rare and makes quite an impact. As it is an old item, it shows some signs of use, but is in relatively good condition. You can insert a brush by opening the top lid, but a brush is not included. A yatate is a portable writing tool that holds a brush and an ink bottle, and was used from the Edo period to the Taisho period.  [Characteristics] In the Kamakura period, when writing on the battlefield, a small inkstone and brush were carried in a yatate. The ink bottle was filled with mugwort to prevent the ink from spilling. The shapes included a fan-shaped, ladle-shaped, and inro-shaped ink bottles. The materials used included metal, ceramic, bamboo, and wood. [How to use] The lid of the ink bottle was opened, the ink was soaked into cotton, and the ink was hung from the obi with a string using a netsuke. Gourds are considered a symbol of prosperity for descendants and business success because they bear a lot of fruit, and are also said to have the power to ward off evil spirits because their narrow shape absorbs them and holds them in place.  In addition, Toyotomi Hideyoshi 豊臣秀吉, a warlord during the Sengoku period, used a gourd as his horse crest and increased the number of gourds he had every time he won a battle, so gourds became widely known as auspicious items. Width 44.6 cm Depth 13.0 cm Height 16.6 cm Weight 1350 g Condition: The condition is generally good. As it is an old item, there are scratches, stains, scratches, discoloration, peeling, wear, etc. Please take a look at the many photos we have posted. Atention: The items listed for sale are all used collectibles. Please consider them to have signs of aging, such as stains, scratches, scuffs, tears, discoloration, fading, fraying, and changes in thread color. We will post as many photos as possible to make it easy to understand. As these are old items, we appreciate your understanding before making a purchase. Shipping: The lot will be carefully packaged and shipped from Japan. We will use either DHL or FedEx for a safe and secure transportation. It usually takes about 2-3 weeks for delivery, and the package will be shipped with a tracking number. Import duties, taxes, VAT, and any other charges are not included in the item price and shipping cost. Please check your country's import duties before bidding. 062522030627