Walter Bosse ashtray

This sculptural ashtray was designed by Walter Bosse and produced by Herta Baller in Austria during the 1950s. Crafted from brass, it features Bosse’s signature “blackened brass” technique, giving the piece a darkened patina. The form is highly stylized, resembling an abstracted hand with elongated, curved fingers that serve both as a visual detail and a practical resting place for cigarettes.

Walter Bosse was an Austrian designer and ceramist renowned for his whimsical yet functional brass objects, often incorporating stylized animal motifs and organic shapes. His designs embody the mid-century modern ethos by blending playfulness with exceptional craftsmanship. Many of his creations were produced in collaboration with Herta Baller, a Viennese workshop specializing in brassware, especially Bosse’s distinctive designs.

The ashtray’s surface shows a natural patina with areas of wear, revealing the golden brass beneath the dark oxidation. This aging is typical of vintage brass objects and enhances the character of the piece. Its compact size makes it a versatile decorative item, suitable for use as an ashtray or a small dish for coins or jewelry.

The ashtray measures 9 centimeters in width, 9.5 centimeters in depth, and 4 centimeters in height (3.5 x 3.7 x 1.6 inches).