Just Andersen - Ashtray - Ildfast Bronze - Bronze

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Today at auction, I am pleased to present to you



A Danish decorative Art Deco ashtray (often referred to as “ildfast bronze”) featuring a polar bear figurine, most likely dating from the first half or middle of the 20th century.

These pieces were extremely popular in Scandinavia (particularly Denmark) and are characterized by their distinctive patina:

• Material: Bronze (often with additives or an acid-treated finish),

• Finish: A distinctive two-tone patina—golden-brown wear marks combined with a greenish or fiery hue, achieved through heat and chemical treatment (hence the Danish term ildfast—fireproof).

• Use: Originally, they served as luxurious desk ashtrays, with the central figurine (in this case, a bear) making it easier, for example, to tap off ash or extinguish a cigar.

GOOD CONDITION