Mid-century brass ashtray
Estimated Value
$20-$60
A round, heavy-looking brass ashtray with six evenly spaced cigarette rests around the rim and a recessed central bowl. The form is simple and functional, typical of mid-century smoking accessories. The polished brass surface shows significant oxidation, spotting, and handling wear, suggesting regular use over time. No maker's mark is visible in the image, so attribution remains uncertain.
Era
Mid-Century Modern, approximately 1950s-1970s
Origin
Likely Western Europe or North America
Material
Brass or brass-plated metal
Condition
Fair to Good; visible surface scratches, tarnish, spotting, and age-related wear. No obvious cracks or structural damage visible.
Physical Details
Dimensions
Approximately 5 to 7 inches in diameter and 1 to 2 inches tall
Weight
Medium
Authentication
Authenticity Score
Medium; the object appears period-appropriate, but lack of visible marks prevents firm maker or origin confirmation.
Provenance
Likely a domestic smoking accessory from the mid-20th century, possibly produced for household, office, or hospitality use. Exact maker and country of origin cannot be determined from the image alone.
Historical Significance
Ashtrays of this type are representative of mid-20th-century smoking culture, when decorative and utilitarian ashtrays were common household and commercial items.
Related Identifications
Browse all →Small contemporary clown portrait painting on canvas
7-inch vinyl record single (Polydor label) – "Deep Purple" by Werner Müller and his Orchestra
Framed contemporary portrait print or painting of a man in glasses
Pair of small landscape paintings
Small signed landscape oil painting on board
Octagonal brass/bronze token or seal-like medallion with green patina
Cast metal decorative door knocker or furniture mount with figural relief
Decorative metal spoon or ladle handle fragment