Description

Vintage 1950s Bluish-Purple Crystal Glass Orb Ashtray with Brass – Made in Germany

Step back into the glamorous design era of the 1950s with this unusual vintage German crystal glass ashtray, featuring a dramatic orb or ball-shaped form in a beautiful bluish-purple tone.

The substantial glass body has a fascinating optical quality, with curved transparent sections and rounded internal details that catch and reflect light from different angles. The rich purple-blue colouring gives the piece a sophisticated mid-century character, while the brass ashtray fitting adds a warm metallic contrast to the cool-toned glass.

The brass element wraps around the glass orb and incorporates the cigarette rest, creating an inventive combination of sculptural glass and functional metalwork. The result is an eye-catching piece that looks more like a piece of mid-century art glass than a conventional ashtray.

Its unusual spherical silhouette makes it especially appealing to collectors of vintage German glass, mid-century decorative objects, retro barware and unusual ashtrays. Whether displayed as part of a glass collection or styled on a coffee table, drinks cabinet or vintage-inspired interior, it makes a strong decorative statement.

Condition

Vintage condition. The glass and brass show signs consistent with age and previous use. There are visible marks/wear to the brass and glass, adding to its authentic vintage character. Please study all photographs carefully, as the images form an important part of the condition description.

Collector’s Note

This is an especially interesting example of the mid-century fascination with sculptural glass forms. Rather than relying on a traditional flat ashtray shape, the spherical glass body gives the piece a strong three-dimensional presence. The combination of deep purple glass and brass makes it particularly suitable for collectors of 1950s German glassware and vintage smoking accessories.

Vintage 1950s German bluish-purple crystal glass orb ashtray with brass cigarette rest. Unusual spherical mid-century design combining sculptural art glass with elegant brass detailing. A distinctive collectible and decorative vintage piece.