Antique vase in the shape of a bottle gourd with a horse figure on the side. The vase is made of bronze. Japan, 20th century.Bottle gourd is a symbol of health, life, in ancient times, water was stored in pumpkins, which was drunk and considered healing. Monks relied on the pumpkin as a symbol of getting rid of negativity and evil spirits that constantly live near a person. The pumpkin was considered a talisman, so they treated it as a sacred vessel, not allowing bad thoughts to be expressed near it. A red or gold rope or ribbon tied to the pumpkin serves to ensure that the talisman works at full strength.The symbol of the horse is a symbol that no culture can do without. Domesticated by man, the horse nevertheless remains a symbol of love for freedom and willfulness, which turns it into a devoted friend of a warrior, a farmer, and simply an amazingly beautiful animal. The Horse rightfully occupies a place of honor in the Chinese zodiac, personifying the symbol of purity, loyalty and unconditional love.