Ashtray
MakerMade by
B. F. H. S.
RetailerSold by
Mellen & Hewes Co.
American
Dateabout 1910
MediumCast porcelain with overglaze gilding, and yellow and black enamels
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (width x depth): 6 x 4in. (15.2 x 10.2cm)
ClassificationsCeramics
Credit LineGift of Ursula Korzenik
DescriptionRectangular porcelain ashtray with a flared, undulating rim. A black enamel, printed pattern in the center of the ashtray is titled, "Y. M. C. ASS'N BUILDING, HARTFORD, CONN." The three-story building reflects the Romanesque revival style, as well as the Tudor style, with an arched doorway and arched windows, gable end facing the street, and a round tower at each of the two front corners of the building. The building is separated from the street by a sidewalk. The pattern is surrounded by three undulating borders that follow the basic shape of the ashtray. The first is a row of diamonds with two small circles on either side. Then are two gilded lines. The rim is covered with a yellow enamel, and gilded lines highlight the raised geometric decoration around the edges of the rim. There is an additional line of gilding at the rim. Some of the gilding and yellow enamel is worn, especially near the outer edges of the rim. The bottom of the ashtray is not glazed.
Object number1989.112.0
MarkingsThere is on printed, gold mark on the unglazed bottom of the ashtray. It reads, "B. F. H. S./ CHINA/ MADE IN AUSTRIA/ For The Mellen & Hewes Co./ Hartford, Conn."Subject Terms
On View
Not on view
