This is a strange mid-century Japanese decanter. It takes the form of a little comical man holding a tennis racket.
The little figurine is hollow and his head acts as the stopper. He stands on a little shaped plate with four little cream-coloured ceramic shot cups. There is a cork which fits snuggly into the neck of the decanter body.
The decanter dates to the 1930s. This one is unsigned. I have seen another example that has a transfer printed on the base which reads: Made in Japan. The decanter was never meant to be a fine ceramic item - but was created as a collector's novelty piece. The main body colour is cream ceramic; all the colours are original to the decanter and hand-painted over the glaze. The little man is very comical. He wears a black beret type cap, striped scarf, and has those huge round glasses. He holds a large tennis racket to his side.
It is in fair condition for its age - and with it being made from a lower-quality ceramic. It would probably be better used for display purposes than as a functional piece. You could use it as a decanter - but you would have to take some care with cleaning it after use. All the same, it is a rare and highly collectable item, especially with his original stand and cups. The set has no chips, cracks or crazing. The stand is without damage and the little cups are fine as well.
Dimensions: The decanter is 9 1/2 inches in height.
UK Postage will be with Royal Mail Recorded (Small Parcel). This will be applied to the order at the checkout.