Description
This old Dutch hand-forged brass ashtray frames a hand-painted tile of a 17th or 18th century military rifleman.
Rare specimen. The rifleman holds an arquebus, the forerunner of the musket and a saber is latched to his belt. This Dutch military man was called a ‘fusilier’.
The type of arms he bears, the cassock (shirt), breeches and boots, and the soft hat with a feather helps date the fusilier, but does not date the ashtray. The tile is marked on the bottom ‘Made in Holland’. Probably an early Delft tile. We do not know how old the ashtray is, but can assure you it is an antique.
The tile has some crazing but is whole without damage. The handpainted image was done in enamel and is in original condition, no wear. The brass is in aged condition with semi-even patina. The brass was hand-forged, including the applied twisted brass rim, and was welded together with pot-metal. You can see some of the welding points in image. In solid, sturdy condition. Measures 3½” square and 1.25″ deep. 3/4″ wide, level cradle rests will hold cigars and smaller smokes.
Items shown in the Big Ashtray Museum are not for sale. Big Ashtray offers a large selection of antique, vintage and retro art ashtrays, plus modern-made ashtrays, for sale in the Big Ashtray shop. Click here to view available items…
