Attr. Holger Bäckström & Bo Ljungberg - Ashtray - Metal






Art historian with over 10 years' experience and expertise in Italian design.
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Metal Scandinavian design ashtray attributed to Holger Bäckström and Bo Ljungberg, Sweden, dating to 1980–1990.
Description from the seller
Scandinavian design ashtray – “Ultimate” – Attributed to Holger Bäckström & Bo Ljungberg - chrome-plated brutalist design – Sweden – the 1970s
This characterful Scandinavian design ashtray from the 1970s is a strong example of industrial modernism with an unmistakable brutalist formal language. The piece combines a solid base in deep blue with a heavily chrome-plated top, built from a rhythmically geometric lattice that is both functional and sculptural. It seems to be a variant of the classic Ultima 15, a design by the designers Holger Bäckström & Bo Ljungberg.
The design breathes the typical Scandinavian design philosophy of the seventies: clean, modular, and architecturally composed, with a clear focus on material contrast and light reflection. The mirrored chrome structure creates a dynamic play of light and shadow, giving the object a different appearance from every angle.
The Ultima ashtray is a design by Holger Bäckström & Bo Ljungberg and this exemplar may be by the same designers.
The underside bears a distinctive monogram with the years 1945–1990, indicating a special edition or commemorative application. This gives the object an extra layer of historical context and sets it apart from standard editions.
The piece is in very good vintage condition, with only light signs of wear appropriate to age and use. The chrome retains a beautiful luster and the structure is fully intact.
A striking and decorative object that is not only functional but also excels as a mid-century design statement in a modern, Scandinavian, or minimalist interior.
Dimensions: L 10 cm x 10 cm x H 4.5 cm
Weight: 222 grams
This vintage object will be securely packed and insured for shipment with smart shipping and track and trace.
Seller's Story
Scandinavian design ashtray – “Ultimate” – Attributed to Holger Bäckström & Bo Ljungberg - chrome-plated brutalist design – Sweden – the 1970s
This characterful Scandinavian design ashtray from the 1970s is a strong example of industrial modernism with an unmistakable brutalist formal language. The piece combines a solid base in deep blue with a heavily chrome-plated top, built from a rhythmically geometric lattice that is both functional and sculptural. It seems to be a variant of the classic Ultima 15, a design by the designers Holger Bäckström & Bo Ljungberg.
The design breathes the typical Scandinavian design philosophy of the seventies: clean, modular, and architecturally composed, with a clear focus on material contrast and light reflection. The mirrored chrome structure creates a dynamic play of light and shadow, giving the object a different appearance from every angle.
The Ultima ashtray is a design by Holger Bäckström & Bo Ljungberg and this exemplar may be by the same designers.
The underside bears a distinctive monogram with the years 1945–1990, indicating a special edition or commemorative application. This gives the object an extra layer of historical context and sets it apart from standard editions.
The piece is in very good vintage condition, with only light signs of wear appropriate to age and use. The chrome retains a beautiful luster and the structure is fully intact.
A striking and decorative object that is not only functional but also excels as a mid-century design statement in a modern, Scandinavian, or minimalist interior.
Dimensions: L 10 cm x 10 cm x H 4.5 cm
Weight: 222 grams
This vintage object will be securely packed and insured for shipment with smart shipping and track and trace.
