Miloslav Klinger Ashtray in Turquoise · Železný Brod Sklo, Czechoslovakia · 1960s/70s

Miloslav Klinger (1922–1999) is considered one of the formative figures in Czechoslovak studio glass. After training at the Železný Brod Glass School under Jaroslav Brychta and Jan Stuchlík, and studying at the Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design in Prague (Karel Štipl studio, completed in 1948), Klinger returned to Železný Brod. From 1950, he designed sculptures and glass objects for Železný Brod Sklo (ZBS) – from the iconic "Dancers" for EXPO 58 in Brussels to clearly contoured utilitarian objects of the 1960s and 70s, which combined modernism, Bohemian craft tradition, and industrial serial production.

This ashtray stands precisely in this tradition of craftsmanship. The rich turquoise, a typical hue for the Železný Brod palette, is particularly intensified by the solidity of the glass wall. From every angle, the color changes in subtle gradations – appearing luminous and cool when viewed flat, and concentrated and deeper at the edges. The geometrically clear form with rounded rests combines function and sculpture, characteristic of Klinger's design work.

The object is in perfect original condition. A distinctive collector's item of Bohemian studio glass from the 1960s to 70s – suitable for display in a cabinet as well as an accent piece on a desk, sideboard, or lounge table. Ashtrays of this kind are no longer viewed merely functionally but are collected as sculptural glass objects.

Dimensions: Width 16 cm · Depth 14 cm · Height 6 cm