Goberg German Viking Ship Standing Ashtray 1905 Arts & Craft Period Metalwork

Details

Description

Early 1900s Arts & Crafts smoker’s companion was designed as a Viking longship with a dragon-head prow, raised shields, curved … Read more Early 1900s Arts & Crafts smoker’s companion was designed as a Viking longship with a dragon-head prow, raised shields, curved sail, riveted hull and integrated smoking accessories. Its tall pedestal and hammered circular base give it the presence of a freestanding metal sculpture.

The design matches documented Goberg examples produced in Schmalkalden, Germany, by the metalworks founded by Hugo Berger. Because this example has no readable maker’s mark, it is accurately offered as attributed to Goberg rather than as a signed work.

◆ Date: circa 1905–1910
◆ Origin: Germany
◆ Maker: attributed to Hugo Berger for Goberg
◆ Style: Arts & Crafts, Jugendstil, Medieval Revival
◆ Form: Viking longship smoker’s companion / floor ashtray
◆ Material: magnetic hammered iron or steel with a nonmagnetic brass-toned removable insert (4lbs)
◆ Measurements: 36 inches high × 10 inches wide × 9 inches deep
◆ Construction: ship is permanently attached to the pedestal; small ashtray cup insert is removable
◆ Condition: stable and complete, with no cracks or broken areas
◆ Markings: no maker’s mark found

The dark surface displays authentic age, oxidation, spotting, scratches, finish variation and wear from more than a century of display and use. These characteristics contribute to its antique character and are documented closely in the photographs.

Originally placed beside a chair in a library, study or smoking room, this unusual companion kept smoking necessities together while transforming an everyday object into dramatic decorative metalwork. Today it may be displayed as collectible German design, nautical sculpture or a conversation piece without being used for smoking.

Display it beside a leather club chair, fireplace or writing desk in an Arts & Crafts interior, moody library, lodge, cigar room or collected coastal home. Its narrow footprint provides sculptural height without occupying much floor space. See less