Vintage Ashtray Designs: A Blast From the Past
Smoking has been a part of human society for centuries, and along with it came the need for ashtrays. As times changed, so did the designs of ashtrays. The early ashtrays were made of clay, but over time, they evolved into a wide range of styles and materials, from elegant glass and precious metals to quirky ceramic and novelty designs.
Glass Ashtrays
Glass ashtrays are some of the most appreciated vintage designs. They were introduced in the 1920s, and their production peaked in the 1950s and 60s. Cut glass, pressed glass, crystal, and frosted glass ashtrays were designed by famous makers such as Anchor Hocking, Fostoria, and Cambridge Glass. They usually feature intricate patterns and decorative elements, from floral motifs to geometric shapes.
Ceramic Ashtrays
Ceramic ashtrays come in different shapes, sizes and colors. They are often decorated in themes such as nature, animals or advertising. Among the most popular are those depicting cartoon characters, sports teams or tourist destinations. Vintage ceramic ashtrays were made by companies such as Hull, McCoy, and Royal Haeger, and they are still cherished by collectors today.
Metal Ashtrays
Metal ashtrays are durable and come in a variety of styles, including Art Deco, mid-century modern, and industrial. They were popular in the 1940s and 50s and were made of brass, copper, aluminum, and cast iron. They often had an elegant or futuristic design, such as the chrome rocket ashtray or the sleek atomic ashtray.
Novelty Ashtrays
Novelty ashtrays were designed to catch the eye and stand out from the crowd. They come in a range of themes and styles, including animals, people, objects, and even foods. Some of the most unusual and appealing designs are the fish-shaped ashtray, the cowboy boot ashtray, the Cadillac ashtray, and the porcelain rose ashtray.
Push Button Ashtrays
Push button ashtrays were a unique invention of the mid-20th century. They allowed smokers to easily dispose of their ashes by simply pressing a button that would activate a spring mechanism that swept the ashes into a concealed container. Push button ashtrays came in a variety of materials, including metal, plastic, and glass, and were often featured in hotels, restaurants, and bars.
Overall, vintage ashtrays are not only functional but also decorative items that tell the story of a bygone era. Collectors and enthusiasts continue to hunt for rare and unique pieces, and online marketplaces such as eBay or Etsy offer a wide variety of designs to choose from. Whether you’re a smoker or not, a vintage ashtray is a fascinating and nostalgic addition to any collection.
