These were truly a great find. Found at an estate sale a couple of weeks ago and after some research found out that these were made by Roanoid Ltd of Birmingham England ca. 1935. They are wonderfully art deco in design and made of Bakelite. The base is weighted to prevent tipping and screws off to empty the ashes. Sometimes called a ‘tennis ball’ ashtray partly due to the shape and the fact that they were initially designed for the Dunlop Rubber Co. as a sports promotion. These are very rare and collectible. You might find some with advertisement stickers on them which would add another facet to their collectibility. The orangy marbled one is in perfect condition. The green one has a small hairline crack and a small chip on one of the cigarette holders.
When I can part with them, they will be listed on ebay for sale.
Note: These have now been SOLD!!
Very weird and beautiful objects.
absolutely beautiful- i love them!