Hans-Agne Jakobsson ashtray

This rare freestanding ashtray was designed by Hans-Agne Jakobsson and produced by his company, Hans-Agne Jakobsson AB, in Markaryd, Sweden, during the 1950s. Crafted entirely from brass, the piece exhibits a warm golden tone that has developed a natural patina over time, particularly noticeable on the inner bowl surface. The design consists of a shallow, hemispherical bowl supported by three slender cylindrical rods that connect to a circular base ring. Its form emphasizes geometric clarity and verticality, reflecting Jakobsson’s minimalist yet elegant approach to Scandinavian mid-century design.

Hans-Agne Jakobsson, originally trained as a cabinetmaker and later as an architect, is renowned primarily for his lighting designs but also explored furniture and accessories with the same sculptural sensitivity. His work is distinguished by a blend of material warmth and modernist lines, often creating pieces that balance function with subtle decorative qualities.

This ashtray embodies key values of the Scandinavian mid-century movement, focusing on simplicity and functionalism while employing high-quality materials. The piece shows signs of age and use, including surface wear, tarnish, and oxidation on the brass, especially inside the bowl, contributing to its authenticity and vintage character.

The dimensions are 21 centimeters in diameter and 60 centimeters in height (approximately 8.3 inches by 23.6 inches), making it a striking and functional accessory within mid-century interiors.