Smoked Glass Starburst Ashtray or Dish

Name: Smoked Glass Starburst Ashtray or Dish
Brand: Rene
Availability: LimitedAvailability

Smoked glass oval dish or ashtray with a starburst-spiked rim on a wooden table.

Ordinary (3/10)

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QUICK FACTS

DESCRIPTION

An oval-shaped dish or ashtray made from smoked brown or grey glass, featuring a distinctive starburst or spiked rim. The central oval well is smooth, contrasting with the textured and angular edge. Its design suggests a mid-20th century aesthetic, often associated with decorative glass pieces of that era.

CULTURAL ECHOES

Where This Object Echoes

Art Deco1920s-1930s

The emphasis on geometric shapes and decorative, functional objects aligns with the Art Deco movement's influence on home decor prior to the mid-century.

Mid-Century Modern Design1940s-1970s

The use of smoked glass and bold, often atomic or starburst patterns, is highly characteristic of Mid-Century Modern aesthetics in home furnishings and decorative items.

Ritual & Ceremonial Use

•Often used in homes as a formal ashtray during social gatherings, highlighting the prevalence of smoking indoors in the mid-20th century.
•Functioned as a key or candy dish in living rooms and entryways, serving both a practical and decorative purpose.
•Collected as a representative example of mid-century glass design, appealing to enthusiasts of vintage home decor.

Meaning Through Time

Mid-20th Century

Primarily viewed as a functional household item, such as an ashtray, reflecting social norms and design trends of the time.

Late 20th Century to Present

Its function as an ashtray declined with changing social attitudes towards smoking, leading to its reinterpretation as a decorative dish or collectible item for its aesthetic rather than its original purpose.

HISTORICAL STORY

Decorative glass pieces like this were popular from the mid-20th century onwards, often serving as ashtrays in a time when smoking was more common indoors, or as general decorative dishes for candy, keys, or other small items. The starburst or atomic design elements were trendy during the Art Deco ...

DID YOU KNOW?

Smoked glass achieved popularity in the mid-20th century, offering a sophisticated and often more subtle alternative to clear or brightly colored glass.

The starburst motif, prominent in the design of this dish, was a hallmark of Mid-Century Modern design, appearing in everything from clocks to dinnerware.

MATERIAL & CONDITION

Surface

The surface is glossy and smooth, characteristic of polished glass. The central oval is entirely smooth, while the spiked rim features facets that catch the light, adding a textural contrast.

Weight & Feel

Based on its size and material, the item likely feels substantial and solid, as glass dishes of this type are typically thick and heavy.

Condition

The item appears to be in excellent condition with a clear, reflective surface, suggesting minimal use or careful storage. No visible chips, cracks, or significant scratches are apparent from the images.

RARITY ANALYSIS

Ordinary40-55%

CommonLegendary

Standard antiques commonly found at estate sales and flea markets. Plentiful supply meets modest demand.

Typical Characteristics

Moderate production runs
Common at estate sales
Entry-level collectibles

ESTIMATED VALUE

$15 - $45

Updated: Jan 31, 2026

Market comparables from auctions & retail
Condition, completeness & craftsmanship
Current collector demand & trends
Low = quick sale, High = patient seller

For informational purposes only—not a formal appraisal.

CONTEXT ANALYSIS

How your provided context compares with Curiosa.com scanner findings.

What Aligned

User believes item is 'Original/Authentic' - the design and material are consistent with an authentic mid-century glass item.
User states 'Condition: Mint' - visual inspection reveals no apparent damage, supporting a 'mint' or excellent condition assessment.