Mid-Century Italian Chrome Flower Cocktail Ashtrays, 1960s, Set of 6

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Charming set of vintage cocktail ashtrays, combining functionality with a remarkable decorative and playful appeal. Dating from the 1960s–1970s, these … Read more Charming set of vintage cocktail ashtrays, combining functionality with a remarkable decorative and playful appeal. Dating from the 1960s–1970s, these fascinating Italian objects were designed to provide each guest with an individual ashtray while entertaining, preventing ash or cigarette butts from falling onto a carpet, sofa, or coffee table. Each individual ashtray is remarkably small, no larger than a flower petal, and forms part of a larger sculptural composition. Crafted from chrome-plated metal, the set takes the form of a large stylized flower resting gracefully on a coffee table.

The central floral arrangement is composed of individual "petals," each functioning as a small removable ashtray. Exceptionally functional yet distinctly playful, this 1970s cocktail ashtray set introduces an entertaining element to the smoking ritual: each guest can simply "pluck" a petal from the flower to use as their personal ashtray, evoking the nostalgic Italian game "M'ama non m'ama" (He loves me, he loves me not), traditionally played by removing the petals of a daisy one by one. The set bears two impressed marks. One confirms its Italian manufacture, while the other, featuring a stylized Gothic letter "B," identifies a manufacturer whose identity remains unknown to us. This type of multi-piece cocktail ashtray set was particularly popular in Italy during the mid-20th century and was produced in various sophisticated versions by luxury houses, including Gucci, which contributed to its popularity as a fashionable entertaining accessory.

A wonderful example of Italian Mid-Century Modern design, this sculptural flower ashtray set is both a functional vintage object and an eye-catching decorative centerpiece, particularly appealing to collectors of Italian design, vintage barware, and playful 1960s–1970s accessories. The set appears to have been lightly used and remains in good vintage condition. It shows minor signs of age and use, including areas where the original chrome plating has worn away, revealing the underlying metal. These imperfections are visible in the photographs and are consistent with its vintage character. Please feel free to contact us with any additional questions. See less