Hedgehog nesting ashtray/trinket dish in brass, attributed to Walter Bosse, for Hertha Baller, Austria 1950s.

A piece as playful as it is surprising. This patinated brass hedgehog hides within its heart a series of small nested hedgehogs, reminiscent of a Russian doll reimagined in a 1950s design style. At first glance discreet, it reveals all its poetry once opened, showcasing its miniature variations, each echoing that iconic silhouette with stylised spines. Serving as an ashtray, a catch-all, or simply a decorative object, it perfectly embodies the spirit of Walter Bosse. Designer: attributed to Walter Bosse. Edited by Hertha Baller around 1950. Origin: Austria. Material: patinated brass. Function: ashtray / catch-all / decorative object. Condition: beautiful patina from use, signs of age consistent with its years. Dimensions of main hedgehog: Height: 8 cm – Width: 11 cm – Depth: 7 cm. Particularity: nesting model with several nested hedgehogs, this model contains 5 hedgehogs (instead of the original 6). A common detail on this piece.