Cool cast iron ashtray yardsale find. Any ideas on age or maker?

MrMarsHill · Jan 3, 2020

Hi all! This may not be the correct forum, but I suspect it can be moved if needed? Or I will be redirected? Either way, I have this awesome OLD cast iron ashtray that was found at a yardsale... about 30+ years ago by my grandparents. They were both smokers and this sat on their table my whole life. When they passed, it was something I took because it reminded me of them. I have no intention of selling the item. I am interested in any info, including value if known. It has a makers mark on bottom but my research has turned up nada. Is it japanese? Shapes? Letters? I dont even know how to search the mark honestly Haha. I know there have to be some cast iron pros on here, help me out! This thing is solid and heavy, probably 4-5 lbs. It has lots of gold "guilding" I guess it would be called? Lots has been lost to the years, but there is plenty of gold left to see the design. I like the way the flowers look almost like stars. It's a treasured family heirloom so all my knowledge will only be used to add to the story of this item. I just know someone can set me in the right direction atleast to find the maker or a guess at the age etc. Help! I appreciate it!