Overview
A striking ceramic ashtray featuring a high-gloss cobalt blue interior contrasted against a matte, textured terracotta exterior.
Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
A striking ceramic ashtray featuring a high-gloss cobalt blue interior contrasted against a matte, textured terracotta exterior.
Story
Post-war America saw a massive boom in 'Roadside Americana' as families took to the newly built interstate highways to explore the Southwest. This piece is a classic example of the 'souvenir' art movement, where ancient indigenous aesthetics were adapted into…
Maker / Origin
While this piece lacks a formal maker's mark, it is consistent with the output of regional workshops in Arizona or California that specialized in 'tourist ware.'
Condition & Value
The piece appears to be in good vintage condition with no visible cracks or major chips. There is some light wear to the hand-painted black and red pigments on the exterior, and a remnant of a paper label on the base which could be carefully removed. The interior glaze remains bright and reflective.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Regional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375