This iconic set of hedgehogs is a classic of mid century modern design. Designed by Walter Bosse, an expert craftsman from the golden age of Vienna bronzes. His “black/gold” line of animals was crafted to make “as many people as possible happy.” Copied millions of times over, offered here is an authentic set from the 1970s.

An original vintage example of Walter Bosse’s most famous design from the 1970’s.

Super rare set of Walter Bosse ashtrays. The set is made of solid aluminum, hence a lighter weight, with a black finish (not the usual blackened brass). This rare vintage aluminum version of Walter Bosse’s most famous design is from Bosse’s experiments with other materials later in his career. This is NOT the fake Russian or Greek sets.

Vintage original example of Walter Bosse’s most famous design! This group of 6 stacking hedgehogs are in great condition with good patina. Comes with all 6 hedgehog ashtrays that stack up and nest inside each other. Baby has the X legs of older sets and a cute pointed nose with small drilled eyes. Patina is a dark black with an almost purple undertone and a shiny satin finish. Polishing on the spines is very bright, sharp and bold. Casting quality is good and very smooth. Spines are sharp and the legs are nice length. The ears on the first 4 hedgehogs are polished. The nose is medium length and flat/sharp on the end. Overall a nicely proportioned set. These sets were only being made for a super short time near the end of Bosse’s career in the 1970s. Not many were produced and they only come up on the market once every 5-7 years. This is one of the nicest aluminum set’s I’ve seen. Unmarked. Own a piece of interesting Bosse history for a great price!

Last image shows a page from a 1970s catalog of Walter Bosse ashtrays. The bronze and aluminum sets are shown next to eachother in the photo. The aluminum set is un-stacked in the front with a cigarette resting in the largest bowl.

Condition – This group of 6 stacking hedgehogs are in original condition with original darkened patina. Some light wear to the surface patina.

Unmarked. Last two images show a page from an original Walter Bosse catalog circa the 1970s and an original advertisement for his hedgehog ashtrays.

Authenticated by Modern Vienna Bronze as an original Walter Bosse design.

ウォルター・ボッセ – ハリネズミオブジェ/灰皿