Vintage advertising ashtray Association Military Staff blue vintage menu

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This antique promotional ashtray is rectangular with four cigarette rests, typical of table accessories from the period. Made of glazed ceramic or porcelain, it features a silkscreened decoration in blue on a white background. The visible side includes detailed text: around the edge, one can read "ASSOCIATION des ANCIENS MEMBRES des ÉTATS-MAJORS de la COMPAGNIE des MESSAGERIES MARITIMES" (Association of Former Members of the Staff of the Messageries Maritimes Company), accompanied by a stylized coat of arms in the upper left corner. In the center, a complete menu is inscribed, listing aperitif, grilled tuna, sea sorbet, Camargue rice, green salad, cheese, pastry, coffee-digestif, as well as red and rosé wines.

The bottom of the ashtray bears the inscription "Le ... à la Gardianne" (the word between "Le" and "à la Gardianne" is partially obscured or illegible), accompanied by a stylized bull's head, evoking Camargue tradition. The blue print remains clear and legible, elegantly contrasting with the smooth white surface of the item.

This ashtray stands out for its vintage aesthetic and specific iconography, both military and gastronomic, indicative of its use at an event or association banquet. The coat of arms, inscriptions, and menu are typical elements of promotional or commemorative items from the second half of the 20th century.

The glossy finish and print quality suggest careful manufacturing. The overall design remains understated, with clean lines and a utilitarian presentation, consistent with table accessories of associations and institutions of the time.

In the photo, no cracks, chips, or significant wear are visible on the upper surface. The inscriptions are well preserved, without notable fading, and the glaze appears even. The four cigarette rests are also intact.

Condition

Used item sold as is. The visible side shows no major apparent defects; the print is clean and the glaze is shiny. No chips or cracks are visible on the upper part.

Did you know? The Compagnie des Messageries Maritimes, mentioned on this ashtray, was one of the largest French shipping companies of the 19th and 20th centuries, providing postal, commercial, and passenger links to Asia, Africa, and Oceania. Associations of former staff regularly organized banquets, often commemorated by personalized items like this one.

AFW Reassurance

Your order will be carefully packed and shipped quickly by a professional seller, experienced in handling antique and fragile items.

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