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An original family of stacking hedgehogs by Walter Bosse, 1950's. These hedgehogs are perhaps Walter Bosse's most famous design. They were produced in Germany, and this set is a fine example from the early 1960s.
Close up of the nose of a hedgehog designed by Walter Bosse. Most of Walter Bosse's works in metal were produced by Herta Baller in Vienna. When Bosse moved to West Germany in 1953, he designed an entire portfolio of new work to be produced outside of Austria. The hedgehog ashtrays were conceived during this time.
A portrait photo of stacking hedgehogs by Walter Bosse. Unfortunately, the clever design was stolen and copied by numerous manufacturers during the 1960's but this set is an authentic original.
Head on shot of the side of a very sculptural set of six stacking hedgehogs designed by Walter Bosse. This object is an iconic Austrian/German metal design from the mid-20th century but Seth Rogan has enhanced their popularity and fame even further.
Portrait image of a hedgehog cast in brass metal. The design has been black patinated before the tips of the hedgehogs spikes were polished back again to reveal the golden yellow brass metal.
Detail showing the beautifully finished surface of a set of Walter Bosse hedgehogs. The level of quality helps date the set to the early 1960s.
A photo showing the back of a bulbous little hedgehog. The animals nose pokes out on the right. Design by Walter Bosse.
Zoomed in image showing how many different hedgehog shaped trays sit atop each other to create one larger more three dimensional hedgehog. This classic mid century design is by Walter Bosse.
A family of six hedgehogs by Walter Bosse. The six hedgehogs, each with their own unique characteristics, were designed as personal ashtrays which can be stacked, when not in use, to form a large hedgehog figure. The spines of each hedgehog are shaped perfectly to accommodate a cigarette.
A zoomed in image showing a small baby hedgehog stood amongst its family. Each hedgehog features a black patinated surface and their finish also includes polished brass tips. Walter Bosse was famous for his 'Black and Golden' line of animals.
Head on shot of 6 black metal hedgehogs walking around in a circle. This famous 1950s Austrian Germany design was the creation of Walter Bosse who produced 100s of different whimsical home accessories featuring animals in the mid-twentieth century.
Six hedgehogs walking around in a circle. The cute creatures were sculptured by Walter Bosse who was known to big a big lover of animals, particularly cats. Online design gallery Art & Utility stock dozens of Walter Bosse's designs and ship globally.
Top down view showing inside the bowl of dishes in the shape of hedgehogs. The black patinated surface has age related wear but this only adds to the character of this set of stacking hedgehogs by Walter Bosse.
Six hedgehogs of varying different sizes laying on their backs. The hedgehog trays are designed to stack one on top of each other. This design has been copied lots but Walter Bosse is the original creator and this set is an authentic original from the early 1960s.
Looking down on a small black and gold coloured hedgehog with a pointy and shiny nose. These stacking metal trays were designed by Walter Bosse shortly after he left Herta Baller in Austria in the 1950s.
A group of baby hedgehogs playing together. These metal sculptures were designed by famous metalware designer Walter Bosse. They were made in Germany.
Close up of baby hedgehogs playing together. They are standing on top of each other. The design is by Walter Bosse. A prominent mid century Modernist Austrian designer who primarily worked in metal.
Top down view of 6 hedgehog trays, one if stood on top of another. The tips of their spikes are golden yellow polished brass whilst their main bodies are black patinated brass. This black and gold colour way was also popular with other Austrian metalware designs such as Carl Auböck, Richard Rohac and Karl Hagenauer.
Bosse

Walter Bosse Hedgehog Ashtrays

£400.00 £0.00
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An original family of stacking hedgehogs by Walter Bosse, 1950's. These hedgehogs are perhaps Walter Bosse's most famous design. They were produced in Germany, and this set is a fine example dating from the late 1950's.

Most of Walter Bosse's works in metal were produced by Herta Baller in Vienna. When Bosse moved to West Germany in 1953, he designed an entire portfolio of new work to be produced outside of Austria. The hedgehog ashtrays were conceived during this time.

The six hedgehogs, each with their own unique characteristics, were designed as personal ashtrays which can be stacked, when not in use, to form a large hedgehog figure. The spines of each hedgehog are shaped perfectly to accommodate a cigarette. 

Unfortunately, the clever design was stolen and copied by numerous manufacturers during the 1960's. Bosse fought for most of his life in unprecedented legal battles for the copyright of his design. He would eventually win, and resultantly these cute and unassuming characters are the basis of most copyright laws today, making them truly historically significant little hedgehogs.

Designer: Walter Bosse

Manufacturer: Walter Bosse

Year of Design: C. 1955

Dates Produced: C. 1955-65

Colour: Black, Gold

Height (Stacked): 7.5 cm, Width: 12 cm, Depth: 7 cm

Condition: Very Good with signs of age & use