It’s Ugly, Heavy, and I Absolutely Love It
July 13, 2025
Source: Reddit
I was elbow-deep in a dusty box in a Swedish attic and pulled out this strange object that looked like it belonged in a cowboy’s living room. Thick leather strap, metal stirrup on one end, hammered metal bowl at the top. My first thought? “Is this a medieval feedbag for squirrels?”
It’s a leather armrest ashtray, and once I figured that out, I couldn’t stop smiling.
Leather Armrest What?
These were popular in the 1970s. Ashtrays designed to sit over a sofa arm. Rather than clutter your coffee table with ashes, you would just drape it over the armrest like a little saddle. The stirrups on either end would keep it balanced.
The one I found is vintage—stiff leather, stitching around the edges, and a hint of equestrian charm. It definitely has “horsey household” energy. It was missing one stirrup, so it sagged awkwardly until I figured out how it was meant to function.
Smoke, Style, and Saddle Identity
Smoking was once a built-in aspect of home life. Ashtrays were for decorative purposes rather than disposal. This leather armrest ashtray was not just an accessory, it was part of the character of the room.
Even without smoking, it works as an quirky decor item. You could use it to rest keys, wrapped candies, or even spare change. Just leather and metal and stitching: it’s an interesting conversation piece in itself.
A Gem from a Different Time
This piece is a reminder of a time when design wasn’t just about utility but about flair. Heavy, balanced, handmade. The stirrup ends weren’t random; they refer to the horsey, countryside aesthetic that some households embraced. You could easily see it lounging next to a leather arm chair and a half-finished Scotch.
I Didn’t Know I Needed This
I did not expect to find a tack room ashtray from the 1970s, but I’m now here for it. If you come across one in a flea market, thrift shop, or buried in a relative’s house—don’t brush it off. It evokes character and charm whether you smoke or not.
Another upgrade that your living room might just thank you for.