gourd-shaped porcelain vase measuring H x W: 11.5 in x 10.5 in In Daoism (Taoism), the gourd shape is taken to represent heaven and earth with an extended meaning representing the entire universe. The gourd is also the Taoist (Daoist) symbol of alchemy. It was believed that the "elixir of immortality" could be produced through distillation of what we now know to be two poisonous substances, red cinnabar and mercury! spring decor summer decor fall decor winter decor home decor garden flowers floral ceramic jewel tone