Saucy and Sophisticated: The Story Behind These Vintage Nude Ceramic Ashtrays

Mid-Century Motifs Combine

In the heyday of mid-century design, when homes were being filled with sleek, modern furnishings, there was also a cheeky side to the decor. These saucy vintage ceramic ashtrays featuring nude pin-up figures draped over playing card suits are a perfect example.

Despite their risqué appearance, nude figurines...

The set of four ashtrays, now a rare collector's find, was made in Japan circa the 1940s by the company Stafford. Each glazed ceramic dish depicts a curvaceous nude lounging atop an oversized heart, diamond, club or spade from the deck of playing cards.

The ashtrays combine two iconic mid-20th century motifs - the risqué pin-up girl and the playing card suits used in many styles of graphic design at the time. Yet they manage to retain a sense of innocence and playfulness with the cherubic faces and positions of the figures.

Despite their suggestive nature, nude figurines and characters were extremely popular decorative items in homes during the 1930s-1960s. The ceramics celebrated the female form with a touch of humor and whimsy. These types of pieces have become highly collectible vintage items today.

A Retro Man-Cave Vibe

The melding of the pinup aesthetic with playing card symbols gives the ashtrays a distinctly gambler's den or retro man-cave kind of vibe. One can imagine them being the perfect cheeky accent in a 1950s rec room, den or at-home bar setting.

Excellent Vintage Condition

In excellent vintage condition with the expected crazing of the glazed finish, this rare set is a unique and eye-catching addition to any mid-century design enthusiast's collection. The mix of kitsch and sophistication exemplifies the era's taste.

The melding of the pinup aesthetic with playing card symbols...

These ashtrays are the ultimate in saucy 20th century decor - a playful reminder that style can always use a punch of irreverence. Discover more vintage treasures at JewelryBubble.com.