19th Century Porcelain Putti Figurine Ashtray - Match Striker and Pipe Holder - Antique Smoking Collectible

19th-century porcelain figural group representing a Putti with smoking attributes. This multifunctional desk accessory serves as an ashtray, a pipe rest, and a match holder. The match striker portion is prominently decorated with a turquoise-colored grotesque mask (mascaron), and the lid features a textured surface for ignition.

History of the object:
Such porcelain figurines were popular in the late 19th century as decorative yet functional items for men's smoking rooms or libraries. Often produced in German Thuringian factories, they combined the Rococo-style putto motif with 19th-century domestic utility. This piece features a faint impressed number (1172) on the underside, typical of European factory numbering systems of the era.

Features and Details:
- Period: 19th Century
- Technique: Hand-painted porcelain with gilt accents
- Height: 11 cm (4.33 inches)
- Width: 10 cm (3.94 inches)
- Weight: 260 g (0.57 lbs)
- Material: Fine porcelain
- Condition: The item displays a visible antique crack on the base, extending from the edge toward the center. This is a stable, old fracture that does not compromise the structural integrity but is a noted cosmetic flaw. Minor wear to the gilding is present, consistent with age.

Value and Use:
A rare example of Victorian-era smoking memorabilia (tobaccoiana), suitable for specialized collections of porcelain figurines or historical smoking accessories.