MCM-080 Carl Auböck — Brass & Copper Standing Ashtray for Illums Bolighus, Vienna, c. 1950s

A rare and distinguished example of Austrian mid-century modernist metalwork — a standing ashtray in brass and copper attributed to the workshop of Carl Auböck (Vienna), produced for retail distribution by Illums Bolighus, the premier design emporium of Copenhagen. This piece represents the intersection of two of the most important institutions in 20th-century decorative arts: the Auböck atelier, which shaped the course of Viennese modernist metalwork, and Illums Bolighus, which for decades served as the tastemaking gateway for Scandinavian and international modernist design.

The Auböck workshop — founded in Vienna in the early 20th century and brought to international prominence under Carl Auböck II — became celebrated for merging Modernist formal discipline with an irreverent, sculptural wit. By the 1950s, Auböck objects were exported throughout Europe and distributed through leading Scandinavian retailers including Illums Bolighus, positioning Austrian metalwork within the broader pan-European modernist conversation. Pieces with confirmed Illums Bolighus retail provenance are among the most sought-after Auböck works in the current market.

Standing 21 inches tall on a 12-inch wide base, this ashtray stand has the commanding floor presence that makes Auböck pieces focal points rather than accessories. The brass and copper combination — with the warm patina and minor oxidation of authentic age — is quintessential workshop production of the period.

• Designer: Attributed to Carl Auböck (Austrian, 1900–1957) workshop
• Retailer / Distributor: Illums Bolighus, Copenhagen
• Origin: Austria / Denmark
• Date: Circa 1950s
• Medium: Brass and copper
• Form: Standing ashtray / floor stand
• Height: 21 in.
• Base Width: 12 in.
• Condition: Good vintage condition; surface wear and patina consistent with age; minor oxidation and light abrasions to metal surfaces.

Pickup & Shipping: Local pickup preferred. For buyers requiring shipping, we are happy to provide referrals to our trusted third-party shippers. Please review all photographs carefully.