Italian Floor Ashtray Series 2461 by Max Ingrand for Fontana Arte, 1960s

In 1954, Max Ingrand became artistic director of Fontana Arte. Over the following decade he defined the house's language: thick, cut glass, worked like stone. This pedestal ashtray belongs to that period. Max Ingrand was one of the leading figures in French glasswork and decorative arts of the 20th century. Beyond his role as artistic director of Fontana Arte, he served as vice-president of the Société des artistes décorateurs, vice-president of the Syndicat des verriers d'art et cristalliers de France, and president of the alumni association of the École nationale supérieure des arts décoratifs. He created the stained glass windows of more than two hundred religious buildings across France, making him one of the greatest master glassmakers of his generation. He was made a Chevalier of the Légion d'Honneur in 1957. Model from the 2461 series, produced by Fontana Arte in Italy during the 1960s. The wood column carries at its top a slab of cut glass with a floral motif, Ingrand's recognizable signature, glued directly to the support. Two identical wood handles, carved in relief, sit on the side panels. Good overall condition. A light scratch on one edge, softened with wax polish in the workshop. Early patina beginning beneath the glass, minor, adding character rather than detracting. The glass top is fixed, not removable. 43.5 cm high, 25 cm per side. A rare piece, nearly impossible to find on the market today — few examples of this series have survived in such good condition. Suited to an entryway console, a desk, or as a sculptural base for a small precious object.