Large Arabia Ruska ashtray, vintage 1960s/1970s. Ulla Procopé design Finland. Retro mid century. Autumn matte black/brown bowl/dish. Finnish

A classic bit of mid-century design from the Arabia Ruska range... This LARGE retro pottery/ceramic ashtray has 5 neat evenly spaced slots for a cigarette (said to be inspired by the Arabia Crown logo) - though probably more used now as a decorative bowl. This larger version is harder to find. The glazes on these vary enormously between tan and brown to black, this one is a darker brown/black with lighter brown highlights. It's stamped to the base with 'Arabia Made in Finland'.

The Ruska glaze was designed by Ulla Procopé in around 1960 and was produced until around the mid 1970s. The name Ruska roughly translates from the Finnish as 'Autumn'. I believe the stylish shape of this piece was designed by Bäck Göran in the early 60s, and it was known as the "EE" ashtray. These were manufactured from 1965- 1975. Simple and beautifully designed, very tactile and smooth.

Very good condition, no chips or cracks. These all have deliberate irregularities in the glaze, so they're all different. 16.5cm wide x 4.5cm tall.