Bloem Castle

Name: Bloem Castle
 
Type: Ashtray
 
Year: Circa 1950–1960
 
Set: No
 
Mark: None - None
 
History: This is a mid-20th century chrome-plated souvenir ashtray from the MV Bloemfontein Castle, a passenger liner of the Union-Castle Line. At the center sits an enamel badge featuring the ship’s name and a heraldic emblem — a blue saltire over a white field — a motif associated with the Scottish heritage of the ship’s name.
 
 
Launched in 1949, the Bloemfontein Castle served the Southampton–South Africa route until 1959, when she was sold and renamed. These onboard ashtrays were distributed in staterooms, lounges, or smoking areas as both functional items and mementos. This example, with four cigarette rests and a gently curved, square form, is typical of postwar maritime design — utilitarian yet polished.
 
 
Though unmarked on the base, the ashtray bears characteristics similar to those made by Elkington and other suppliers contracted by Union-Castle for onboard service ware. Its modest size and construction suggest it was intended for personal passenger use rather than dining saloon service.
 
 
A sleek piece of ocean liner memorabilia, this ashtray encapsulates mid-century seafaring glamour and the heyday of the Union-Castle Line. Highly collectible among maritime and travel ephemera enthusiasts, particularly those interested in British shipping history.
 
Flaws: None