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Finding the Right Ashtrays for You
Once a near-universal tabletop accessory, many antique, new and vintage ashtrays have taken on an entirely new purpose in today’s homes.
Whereas these formerly ubiquitous objects were associated with smoking, drinking, gambling and other vices, a well-designed and interesting ashtray is a candy dish, coaster or cocktail garnish receptacle in today’s interiors. But don’t discount its initial function. Amid your carefully curated coastal chic California decor, for example, a stone ashtray can help you manage the ashes that accumulate while you’re burning your morning incense. Old glass ashtrays, which are quite popular and easily found in free-form, organic shapes, can be a purely decorative final touch when styling a coffee table, whether you’ve filled it with wrapped lemon-drop candies or not.
In the postwar years, the democratization of luxury led to an explosion in the number of well-designed ashtrays, and there are many mid-century modern ashtrays to choose from on 1stDibs. (It’s no coincidence that sculptor Isamu Noguchi devised his “Dymaxion” version, which he hoped would make him rich, in 1945. Alas, it turned out to be too difficult to mass-produce.) The design collection of the Museum of Modern Art includes ashtrays by Carlo Scarpa (Murano glass, 1950–59); Achille Castiglioni (stainless steel with spring-like inserts, 1970); Masayuki Kurokawa (rubber and steel, 1973) and more. Smoking declined in popularity in the 1970s and ’80s, after the surgeon general’s warning began appearing on cigarette packs, but designers were still crafting ashtrays through the end of the century (especially outside the United States).
On 1stDibs, browse a collection of antique, new and vintage ashtrays that includes everything from modern and minimalist cigar ashtrays to outwardly ornate Art Deco ashtrays that evoke the opulence and elegance of the 1920s.
- What are Chinese bronzes?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Chinese bronzes refer to bronze objects that were cast in China before 1500 BCE. These bronze items were most likely used as ritual pieces for worship of the user’s ancestors, whose names were often inscribed on the bronze. You’ll find a variety of Chinese bronzes from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- What are Chinese bronze bells?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Chinese bronze bells are bells crafted from bronze that were used as instruments in China. Many were typically hung in a frame and used to create a melody by hitting them with a mallet. Some date back up to 3,600 years. They are also known as bianzhong. Shop a collection of Chinese bronze bells from top sellers on 1stDibs.
- What is Chinese bronze made of?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Chinese bronze is an alloy of copper and tin. The material was influential in China’s growth and development from roughly 3300 to 1200 B.C. Due to its durability and abundance, bronze was used to make weapons and tools during this time. Shop a collection of Chinese bronze goods on 1stDibs.
- What is a Chinese bronze censer?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022A Chinese bronze censer is a decorative bowl fashioned out of bronze metal. Its purpose is to hold burning incense. In addition to bronze, the Chinese made censers out of copper, porcelain and stone. On 1stDibs, find a variety of Chinese bronze censers.
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