Vintage Italian Onyx Smoking Set – Hand-Carved Ashtray & Sculptural Brass Table Lighter

1970s Italian hand-carved onyx smoking set became part of a new appreciation for natural materials, bold forms and the individual character of stone. This remarkable example brings together two contrasting pieces: a sculptural brass table lighter and a substantial onyx ashtray.

The lighter rises in an elegant urn-like form, carved from a single piece of finely banded onyx. Remarkably even layers of soft celadon green and cream travel horizontally around the body before reaching the circular pedestal foot, where the stone suddenly develops deep burgundy-red, reddish-brown and cream formations. The polished brass coloured lighter mechanism completes the tall architectural form.

The ashtray explores an entirely different character of onyx. Thick and deeply carved, the stone moves through green, olive, honey and smoky tones with exceptional translucency. Held towards the light, its appearance changes dramatically, glowing in luminous golden shades and revealing the internal formations of the stone almost like a gemstone.

A pronounced natural mineral seam runs through the ashtray and can be clearly seen from the underside, accompanied by finer natural lines within the stone. It forms part of the individual mineral structure and character of the onyx.

Although contrasting in colour and pattern, the two pieces belong together beautifully through their substantial carving and polished finish. Originally created as smoking accessories, they now have equal presence as sculptural stone objects for a desk, console, coffee table or bar cabinet. The ashtray can also be used as a substantial catch-all for jewellery and other small objects.

Measurements
Lighter height: 10 cm (3.9 in)
Lighter base diameter: 6 cm (2.4 in)

Ashtray diameter: 8.5 cm (3.3 in)

Combined weight: 0.52 kg (1.15 lb)

Condition
The vintage objects are in their original condition and may show signs of use. The metal shows natural patination and signs of age.

The lighter mechanism has not been tested.