Overview
An iconic “Biglia” ashtray designed by Joe Colombo for Arnolfo di Cambio and produced in Italy during the 1970s. Combining a rounded silver-finished metal base with a removable crystal insert, the piece reflects Colombo’s fascination with dynamic forms, modularity and futuristic domestic objects.
 
Description
The “Biglia” ashtray is composed of two contrasting yet perfectly integrated elements: a substantial circular metal base and a removable crystal bowl with an asymmetrical, inclined profile.
The crystal element rests within the central opening of the base and can be positioned at different angles, giving the object a dynamic, almost kinetic appearance. Its transparent, sculptural form captures and refracts the surrounding light, while the smooth silver-toned base provides weight, stability and a striking reflective contrast.
Both functional and visually distinctive, the “Biglia” embodies the experimental character of Italian Space Age design, transforming an everyday smoking accessory into a small sculptural object.
 
Design & Function
Designed as a tabletop ashtray, the piece features a removable crystal bowl set within a rounded metal base. The inclined opening facilitates its original function while also defining the object’s unmistakable silhouette.
The separate crystal element can be lifted out for cleaning and repositioned within the base. The interaction between its asymmetric form and the perfectly circular support creates a composition that appears different depending on the viewing angle.
Beyond its original purpose, the piece may also be displayed as a decorative bowl, small catchall or collectible design object on a desk, coffee table, bar cabinet or console.
 
Materials & Aesthetic
The ashtray combines thick transparent crystal with a substantial silver-finished metal structure. The crystal is characterised by its rounded volume, considerable visual weight and irregular inclined opening, which produces shifting reflections and subtle optical distortions.
The metal base has a cylindrical body with a smoothly rounded upper edge, creating a soft and continuous profile. Its cool metallic surface contrasts with the transparency and luminosity of the crystal, resulting in a bold yet balanced object.
The surfaces retain an authentic vintage patina, with oxidation, tonal variations and marks to the metal, together with light scratches and signs of use to the crystal consistent with the age and function of the piece.
 
Technical Details
Product: Joe Colombo Biglia Crystal and Metal Ashtray for Arnolfo di Cambio Italy 1970
Model: Biglia
Designer: Joe Colombo
Manufacturer: Arnolfo di Cambio
Country of Manufacture: Italy
Period: 1970s
Materials: Crystal; silver-finished metal
Dimensions: Height 10cm | Diameter 14cm
Condition: Please note that this item is in good vintage condition. The metal base presents patina, oxidation, surface marks and tonal variations consistent with age and previous use. The removable crystal insert may show light scratches, marks and minor imperfections consistent with its period and original function. We kindly invite you to examine the photographs carefully and take these characteristics into consideration before purchasing.
Functionality: Removable tabletop ashtray and decorative object
 
Collectibility
The “Biglia” ashtray is a distinctive example of Joe Colombo’s ability to transform an ordinary domestic accessory into a playful and sculptural design object.
Its collectible appeal lies in the interaction between the transparent crystal element and the rounded metal base, as well as in its strong association with the experimental Italian design culture of the late 1960s and 1970s.
Produced by Arnolfo di Cambio, a manufacturer renowned for its high-quality crystal objects, the “Biglia” remains an expressive and highly recognisable piece suitable for collectors of Joe Colombo, Italian Space Age design and 20th-century decorative arts. 
 
Designer & Manufacturer
Joe Colombo was one of the most innovative figures in post-war Italian design. His work explored new materials, rounded forms, multifunctional objects and flexible ways of living, anticipating many of the ideas that would define the Space Age aesthetic of the late 1960s and early 1970s.
In the “Biglia” ashtray, Colombo combined geometry, transparency and movement within a compact domestic object. The inclined crystal insert appears almost suspended within the smooth circular base, creating a design that changes character according to its position and viewing angle.
Arnolfo di Cambio was founded in Colle di Val d’Elsa, Italy, and became renowned for combining traditional crystal craftsmanship with collaborations involving leading Italian designers. The company’s refined production quality and experimental approach made it an ideal partner for Colombo’s sculptural and forward-looking vision.