This is a vintage Italian Casa Vento figural ceramic wine decanter, made as a novelty “collector’s item” for the American market. The figure is a jovial, drinker seated on wine barrels while hoisting another small barrel over his head. The little tap is positioned above his open mouth, giving the piece its wonderfully theatrical “straight from the barrel” theme. 🍷

The original paper label identifies it as Casa Vento Vino Santo White Wine, produced and bottled in Italy by Duca d’Asti, Calamandrana, Asti, and imported into the United States by Vento Wine Import, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio. The underside is impressed with wording identifying it as a collector’s item, Vento Wine, Cleveland, Ohio, Made in Italy. 

This example is particularly appealing because it retains:

• the original cork 
• the large Casa Vento Vino Santo label
• the red “Italia / Marchio Nazionale” seal
• good, strong hand-painted coloration
• intact arms, hands, barrel, faucet, facial features and base

2 pounds,14 ounces. 12" tall.