Ceramic Old Vic ashtray, 1961, probably a first night present given to Robert Eddison

Earthenware ashtray, grey glaze, the interior decorated, in white, with the words, 'Old Vic', and '1961', the words 'Old' and 'Vic', one above the other with the date beneath them, the numbers running downwards in a diagonal. On the left of the date is a caricatured face representing Comedy, to the right is a face representing Tragedy.

Accepted by HM Government in lieu of Inheritance Tax and allocated to the Victoria and Albert Museum, 1996

This object is part of an important personal collection of theatrical material assembled by the actor, Robert Eddison (1908-1991). The collection, which includes ceramics (S.932-1996 to S.1101-1996), architectual plans, architectual Drawing and watercolours, prints, Drawing, rare books and wax figures, was built up by Robert Eddison following World War II, with acquisitions from well-known London dealers and from country outlets visited while on tour. It was regarded as one of the finest collections of Georgian theatrical material in private hands, a high proportion of the material being rare or unique and of national importance. The collection was acquired by the Theatre Museum from the Executors of Robert Eddison as an Acceptance in lieu of Inheritance Tax. Possibly given to Robert Eddison at the Old Vic Theatre, London, as a first night gift.

Incised mark EW ES.

S.1074-1996