Italian catch-all Tray in Amber Tortoiseshell and Gilded Metal 70’s

Italy, 1970s. Found in Milan, this square catch-all tray belongs to those desk and reception objects where tortoiseshell-effect plastic meets gilded metal, for a discreet and highly graphic luxury. Its amber colour, of an unusual warmth, is out of the ordinary. A square base with curved sides, in lightweight tortoiseshell-effect plastic, of an amber yellow veined in brown like a network of crazing, is set with a thin gilded metal edging that frames the top. At the centre, a round gilded-metal dish with a domed rim, simply set in place, lifts out to be emptied in one gesture and reveals a deeper amber well. Very good condition: the plastic and the metal are in good condition, with only very slight signs of use. At 15.5 x 15.5 cm and 5 cm high, it finds its place on an entryway, a console or a desk, for keys, loose change or rings.