Ashtray
An ashtray is a receptacle for ash and smoking remains. Many have recesses around the rim for resting a cigarette or cigar. Collectors may value an ashtray as a functional object, an advertising item or an example of design.
Glass is one of several materials used. The London Museum records a glass ashtray dated 1935 with a cut flower motif in its centre. The Leopold Museum holds a glass ashtray dated 1914/15, designed by Josef Hoffmann, with the executing businesses identified separately. Such records show why designer and manufacturer must be distinguished and why decoration alone does not identify a glassworks.
When assessing older ashtrays, check for rim chips, cracks, scratches, discolouration and wear to any decoration. Compare the base and marks with catalogues or documented museum objects. An unmarked heavy glass ashtray is not automatically attributable to a particular Norwegian glassworks. Later use as a jewellery dish does not change its original function.
