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 a unique experimental set from the 1960s or 70s.

Super rare set of Walter Bosse ashtrays, likely one of a kind. The set is made of some kind of steel alloy, hence it is magnetic, with a metallic grey finish (not the usual blackened brass). This rare vintage steel 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.

This group of 6 stacking hedgehogs are in great condition with original patina. Comes with all 6 hedgehog ashtrays that stack up and nest inside each other. The baby of this set is identical to an authentic baby from a solid brass hedgehog set. This particular baby has the fully formed legs and a cute pointed nose with small drilled eyes. Patina is a grey with copper undertones and a bit of rainbow “oil slick” look in some places. Polishing on the spines is bright silver fading into light copper. Casting quality is a bit sandy and there are tiny spots of rust. Spines are long and the legs are nice length. The ears on the first 3 hedgehogs are polished. All of the eyes have polishing around them as well, which is something not done often. This set is likely to be some kind of experimental model, not made for production. Overall a nicely proportioned set. Unmarked. Own a piece of interesting Bosse history!

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