Pedestal Spittoon (Cuspidor), frequently used as a floor-standing hotel or public building waste receptacle.
Other (Sanitation/Utility Accessory), specifically a pedestal-mounted spittoon or dental cuspidor. · Early 20th Century Industrial/Commercial (approx. 1900-1940). · Unknown commercial manufacturer; exhibits characteristics of medical or hospitality suppliers like Weber or Ritter.
Type
Other (Sanitation/Utility Accessory), specifically a pedestal-mounted spittoon or dental cuspidor.
Style Period
Early 20th Century Industrial/Commercial (approx. 1900-1940).
Material
Polished stainless steel or chrome-plated brass/metal. The base appears to be a heavy cast metal with chrome plating.
Age Estimate
Circa 1920-1950 based on the industrial deco influence and utilitarian metal construction.
Dimensions
Estimated height 10-12 inches, top diameter 9-10 inches; compact footprint compared to full-size standing valet models.
Origin
Likely North American or Western European industrial manufacture for use in hotels, bars, or medical offices.
Designer/Maker
Unknown commercial manufacturer; exhibits characteristics of medical or hospitality suppliers like Weber or Ritter.
Value Estimate
General market value between $75 and $175 depending on the buyer's interest in 'Industrial Chic' or medical antiques.
Description
This is a classic weighted pedestal spittoon, a relic of early 20th-century hygiene. It features a deep center well and a wide rim with elongated slots designed to allow fluid to enter while obscuring the contents. The pedestal base is fluted or 'gadrooned' at the floor contact point for added stability and aesthetic appeal.
Key Features
Circular slotted safety lid, deep conical drainage bowl, and a fluted weighted pedestal base designed to prevent tipping.
Color & Finish
Bright polished chrome or reflective stainless steel surface with visible surface scratches and oxidation patina.
Construction Method
Industrial machine fabrication featuring metal spinning for the bowl, casting for the weighted base, and stamping for the slotted lid.
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Metal-to-metal industrial assembly; the bowl is seated upon a pedestal base likely via a threaded center rod or weld.
Wood Grain & Species
None; strictly metallic construction.
Surface Treatment
Polished reflective finish with concentric machine-turning marks visible on the inner bowl and stamped slots on the rim.
Upholstery Details
None; this is a purely metallic utility object.
Hardware & Fittings
Integrated slotted removable lid designed for modesty and containment; no external hinges or handles are visible.
Origin & Provenance
Likely North American or Western European industrial manufacture for use in hotels, bars, or medical offices.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good condition; shows significant surface scratching, pitting in the metal, and dulling of the original chrome luster.
Interesting Facts
Before the widespread understanding of germ theory, spittoons were ubiquitous in public spaces; they were even mandated by law in some US cities to prevent the spread of tuberculosis.
Cultural Significance
Represents a transition in public health and social etiquette, evolving from common essentials to obsolete curiosities following the mid-20th-century hygiene movements.
Similar Pieces
Could be mistaken for a chalice-style trophy or a vintage dental bowl, but the broad slotted rim is unique to spittoons/cuspidors.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with specialized metal polish (like Simichrome); avoid abrasive pads which will further scratch the soft chrome plating.
Value Estimate
General market value between $75 and $175 depending on the buyer's interest in 'Industrial Chic' or medical antiques.
Sustainability Notes
Highly sustainable due to its long life-cycle and 100% recyclable metal composition; currently represents antique repurposing.