Antique Japanese iron sake server or sakatsugi. The body contains an image of a turtle, a symbol of longevity and used in festive and auspicious occasions. Next to the turtle, although hard to see, is a signature which reads Tosa no Kami Mitsusada, who was a painter from the Tosa School (1738-1806). The image on the sakatsugi is possibly based on a painting by the artist and was incorporated into the design. The "wear" seen on the handles were done intentionally to give the sake server a rustic appearance. Age: Late 19th to 20th century Size: height 7" diameter 5.75"