Pair of Italian brushed metal ashtrays by Fontana Arte, 1960s

Milan, 1960s. Fontana Arte signs this pair of ashtrays with a resolutely geometric form, halfway between the functional object and architectural sculpture. A rare piece, complete as a pair. Each ashtray takes the form of a square block in brushed metal, its lid sliding open to reveal a dark, profiled inner well. Closed, the object folds in on itself like a standing book a minimalist play of volumes typical of the house’s vocabulary. Good overall condition: the brushed metal keeps its satin finish, with no major dents or deformation. At 12 cm square by 3 cm high each, these ashtrays sit on a desk or coffee table, as a pair or apart. A signed piece with a clean, architectural design.