#2304 Hand-painted Japanese ceramic ashtray with blue glaze and gold specks.

9” square Mid-century Japanese ceramics encompass a broad range of styles and production methods, flourishing particularly in the post-World War II era. Many pieces from this period were influenced by both traditional Japanese aesthetics and emerging Western design trends, leading to a diverse output of functional and decorative items. Ashtrays, while primarily functional, were often designed with artistic flair during the mid-century, reflecting the social habits of the time. Japanese manufacturers produced ceramics for both domestic consumption and export, with many pieces featuring hand-painted designs, unique glazes, and often incorporating metallic accents like gold or silver specks to enhance their visual appeal.

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• Listed Jan 12, 2026