Ceramic Tobacco Container Appraisal

Bristol Ware "Businessman" Replica Tobacco Container (1979)

This item is a spherical or rounded container, possibly a tobacco humidor or similar decorative storage jar, featuring a replica design of an antique container from circa 1912. The external surface is adorned with colorful graphics, including a prominent black and white checkerboard pattern on what appears to be the lid portion, and possibly a figural or character design on the body, though the full image is not visible. The dominant color visible on the body is a warm brown or tan, suggesting a natural material like wood or a material finished to resemble it. The bottom of the container clearly states it is a 'BUSINESSMAN' replica from 1979, manufactured by Bristol Ware, a division of Chein Industries, Inc., located in Burlington, N.J. It also notes 'PATENT APPLIED FOR'. The text around the lower edge suggests it may have originally contained 'BROWNIE' brand tobacco and was part of a collection, emphasizing its quality and unique designs. The craftsmanship appears to be mass-produced, typical of replications from the late 1970s. Visible condition issues are minimal from the provided angle, with the label on the bottom appearing largely intact and legible. The item is held in a hand, indicating it is of a size easily manipulated and likely small to medium in scale, consistent with a personal storage container. The overall impression is that of a well-preserved novelty or collectible item designed to evoke vintage aesthetics.