Villeroy & Boch Majolica Fish Ashtray, c. 1910

Ceramic ashtray by Villeroy & Boch (V&B Schramberg), dated approximately to 1910. This collectible piece stands out for its sculptural relief and high-quality polychrome glazes.

Object History: Produced during the transition between Jugendstil and early Art Deco, this model reflects the era's fascination with naturalistic and aquatic motifs. The incised "Bosch" mark on the base is the characteristic stamp used by the German manufacture for its decorative majolica lines in the early 20th century.

Technical Details:
- Period: c. 1910
- Technique: Majolica with high-temperature glazes
- Diameter: 17 cm (6.7 in)
- Height: 6 cm (2.4 in)
- Material: Glazed ceramic
- Condition: The object shows signs of age and use, including small chips and abrasions on the fin ridges and the upper rim of the bowl, visible in the photographic record. The base retains the three original kiln support marks.

Appraisal: An object of historical and artistic interest for collectors of European ceramics and discontinued Villeroy & Boch pieces.