Ashtray and Lighter set by David Marshall, 1960s

Spain, 1960s. David Marshall, a British designer based in Spain, developed a distinctive technique of cast aluminium set with brass inlays in organic, irregular shapes. This ashtray and lighter set is an emblematic example. The large ashtray, in solid aluminium, hollows a deep well framed by a broad flat rim, crossed by a band of raw brass in free-form shapes. The lighter echoes the same signature in miniature, topped with a chrome flint mechanism. The underside of the ashtray retains its original red felt, studded with four brass feet. Good overall condition: the aluminium shows a patina and light oxidation consistent with age, the brass has taken on a matte golden tone; the lighter mechanism remains in place. At 21 cm in diameter by 5 cm high (the lighter measuring 10.5 x 7.5 cm), this set composes a sculptural, singular desk tray, signed by a rare name in period design.