Le Joint Hercule – Brass ashtray, Paris, circa 1900–1930

This exceptional French promotional ashtray made of heavy brass dates from the early 20th century. It was made for the Paris-based Société du Joint Hercule, a company specializing in technical seals and industrial applications. The elaborate relief design and historic company advertising make the piece an interesting example of French industrial culture.

The oval shape features a decorative border of circles of varying sizes. In the center is a stylized representation of a technical device with concentric ovals and a vertical component. The inscription around the edge, “STÉ DU JOINT HERCULE – PARIS, 20 BD BEAUMARCHAIS,” names the company and its former business address on Boulevard Beaumarchais in Paris. The combination of technical imagery, geometric ornaments, and distinctive typography gives the piece a unique character.

Weighing around 335 grams, the ashtray is remarkably solid. The brass surface, aged over decades, shows warm golden-brown tones, dark recesses, and fine signs of wear that beautifully accentuate the three-dimensional relief. An unusual historic promotional object that also makes an excellent decorative display piece on a desk.

• Origin: Paris, France

• Period: 1900–1930

• Material: Brass

• Dimensions: approx. 16 × 9 × 1.7 cm

• Weight: approx. 335 g

• Quantity: 1 piece

An interesting collector's item of French industrial advertising with an unusual graphic design.

This is an old utilitarian object with corresponding signs of age and use. The brass surface shows scratches, abrasion, traces of oxidation, and irregular discoloration. Please also refer to the detailed photographs.