Baroque Brass & Ceramic Pedestal Ashtray with Foliate Scrollwork Base

Design & Inspiration

There is a quiet authority to a piece that draws on centuries of European decorative tradition. This handcrafted pedestal ashtray evokes the grandeur of Baroque and early Art Nouveau ateliers — a period when even the most utilitarian objects were conceived as acts of devotion to beauty. The deep forest-green ceramic bowl, crowned by a scalloped metal rim adorned with cast foliate appliqués, rests upon a boldly sculpted brass pedestal base whose acanthus-leaf reliefs, shell cartouches, and claw-footed stance speak unmistakably to the decorative language of 17th- and 18th-century European craftsmanship.

Materials & Craftsmanship

The bowl is formed from high-fired ceramic finished in a rich green glaze, its exterior hand-painted with flowing gold Art Nouveau scrollwork — sinuous vegetal lines that cascade naturally around the body, catching light with every turn. The interior reveals a warm apricot tone, centered by a cast gold rosette medallion. The rim is dressed in a cast metal collar worked into a continuous scalloped wave, from which four symmetrically placed foliate spurs project outward. The pedestal base is cast brass, worked with deep-relief acanthus leaves, rocaille shell panels, and a four-footed stance reminiscent of Baroque silversmith traditions. The finish is applied by hand, achieving the characteristic luminosity of fine silver plating.

Dimensions & Details

Width: 15 cm | Height: 13 cm | Weight: 4 kg. The generous weight of this piece — 4 kilograms — is a testament to the density and quality of the cast brass base. It sits with complete stability on any surface, from a sideboard in a formal reception room to a dressing table or library desk. The compact diameter makes it equally suited to individual placement or as part of a curated table arrangement.

Handcrafted in Egypt

Every piece bearing the Brass & Wood name is produced by skilled artisans in Egypt, working in a tradition of metalwork and ceramic decoration that traces its roots through centuries of Islamic and Mediterranean craft heritage. The brass casting, ceramic glazing, and hand-painted gilt decoration are each executed as separate, deliberate stages — resulting in an object that rewards close inspection. As with all Brass & Wood pieces, customization of finish color is available upon request.

Frequently Asked Questions

What materials is this ashtray made from?

The bowl is crafted from high-fired ceramic with a hand-applied green glaze and gold painted scrollwork. The pedestal base and rim collar are cast brass with a hand-applied metal finish. No wood components are present in this piece.

Is this item fragile?

Yes. The ceramic bowl requires careful handling. We recommend placing the piece away from high-traffic areas and cleaning gently with a dry or slightly damp cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners that may damage the painted gilt decoration.

Can the finish color be customized?

Yes. Brass & Wood offers finish customization for this piece. Please contact our team to discuss available options including antique gold, silver, and other finishes to suit your interior palette.