Hand-Painted Guatemalan Wooden Resplendent Quetzal Ashtray

This is a vintage, hand-carved wooden ashtray originating from Guatemala, likely produced as a souvenir in Huehuetenango as indicated by the 'Huehue' inscription. The object features a circular base with two cigarette rests and a central basin. It is characterized by a prominent, three-dimensional carving of a Resplendent Quetzal, the national bird of Guatemala, which curves along the right edge. The bird is painted in vibrant shades of emerald green and red with yellow accents on the long tail feathers. An additional carved element, appearing to be a small orange gourd or fruit, is attached to the left side. The wood possesses a warm, honey-toned finish. Notable markings include the handwritten text 'Guatemala' and 'Huehue' in black ink or paint on the lower left. The condition shows significant signs of use, particularly within the basin which exhibits dark charring, ash residue, and surface wear consistent with functional use. The carved quetzal remains mostly intact, though there are minor paint chips and abrasions along the edges of the tail. This folk-art piece represents mid-to-late 20th-century artisan craft typically sold to travelers.