Hello my fellow collector. I needed a little help identifying this vase or jar. At first I thought maybe it had Chinese roots because of the animals in the Chinese zodiac but then I noticed that one of the symbols here was an Elephant; which i don't think belongs to any zodiac order.

If you cant help me with the symbols, please, could you tell me what type of vase it is? or if its even a vase? It could be a jar or a jug I'm just not really sure.

Why the spiked bottom? seems odd since it cant stand on its own. How do you set it up? Do i bury it underground or does it go on a special seat?

Small info: its made of stoneware. Hand made designs probably. 4 small handles on sides. The animals on the side are

1.Horse

2.Tiger

3.Monkey

4.Dragon

5.OX

7.Elephant

8.Rooster [i think]

9.Fish

Any help would be IMMENSELY appreciated