Jacques Lauterbach – Organic Brass Ashtray, Dijon, France, 1950s–1960s

This exceptional ashtray made of heavy, dark patinated brass is by Jacques Lauterbach from Dijon, France, and was made in the 1950s to 1960s. Lauterbach worked as a French art publisher and designer, and with his metalwork, he stands in the tradition of European post-war modernism.

The organic, asymmetrical shape is reminiscent of the sculptural designs of the Austrian designer Carl Auböck. The ashtray has an elongated, slightly tilted bowl with a deeply formed depression and a small cigarette rest integrated into the rim. The dark patinated surface forms a beautiful contrast to the warm, golden-brown brass edges.

On the underside is the stamped signature "J.L. Dijon". With a weight of around 500 grams, the ashtray is remarkably massive in its construction. Its flowing contours and reduced design give it an almost sculptural character and make it an interesting example of French mid-century design.

• Designer: Jacques Lauterbach

• Signature: J.L. Dijon

• Origin: Dijon, France

• Period: 1950s–1960s

• Material: Brass

• Dimensions: approx. 13 × 10 × 6.5 cm

• Weight: approx. 500 g

• Quantity: 1 piece

This is an old everyday object with corresponding traces of age and use. The brass surface shows signs of wear, scratches, and irregular discolorations in places. Please also refer to the detailed images in this regard.