Mid-Century Modern Art Glass Ashtray / Catch-All Dish
Decorative Glassware

Mid-Century Modern Art Glass Ashtray / Catch-All Dish

This appears to be a Mid-Century Modern art glass ashtray or catch-all dish, likely Venetian or Murano glass, given its characteristic smooth, organic form and rich color. The item is crafted from a translucent, olive-green or chartreuse-colored glass with a somewhat smoky or iridescent quality when viewed from certain angles, potentially suggesting an embedded metallic powder (aventurine) or specific glass fusion technique. Its design features a deeply recessed circular or oval basin, from which a pronounced, swirling, wave-like handle or protrusion rises on one side. This wave-like element is thick and sculptural, forming a natural rest, typical of ashtray designs from the period. The edges of the bowl are rounded and polished, indicating hand-finished craftsmanship. The overall shape is asymmetrical and organic, avoiding sharp angles. The base appears solid and slightly convex, contributing to its stability. There are no visible chips, cracks, or significant abrasions on the surface, suggesting good preservation. The glass exhibits a high degree of clarity and luster, with minimal visible imperfections or bubbles, which speaks to its quality. There are no discernible maker's marks or signatures visible in the provided image outside the basin or on the base, but such items often had paper labels that detach over time. The style points to a manufacturing period likely between the 1950s and 1970s, characterized by bold forms and vibrant colors in art glass.

Estimated Value

$150-250

Basic Information

Category

Decorative Glassware

Appraised On

September 1, 2025

Estimated Value

$150-250

Item Description

This appears to be a Mid-Century Modern art glass ashtray or catch-all dish, likely Venetian or Murano glass, given its characteristic smooth, organic form and rich color. The item is crafted from a translucent, olive-green or chartreuse-colored glass with a somewhat smoky or iridescent quality when viewed from certain angles, potentially suggesting an embedded metallic powder (aventurine) or specific glass fusion technique. Its design features a deeply recessed circular or oval basin, from which a pronounced, swirling, wave-like handle or protrusion rises on one side. This wave-like element is thick and sculptural, forming a natural rest, typical of ashtray designs from the period. The edges of the bowl are rounded and polished, indicating hand-finished craftsmanship. The overall shape is asymmetrical and organic, avoiding sharp angles. The base appears solid and slightly convex, contributing to its stability. There are no visible chips, cracks, or significant abrasions on the surface, suggesting good preservation. The glass exhibits a high degree of clarity and luster, with minimal visible imperfections or bubbles, which speaks to its quality. There are no discernible maker's marks or signatures visible in the provided image outside the basin or on the base, but such items often had paper labels that detach over time. The style points to a manufacturing period likely between the 1950s and 1970s, characterized by bold forms and vibrant colors in art glass.

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