Ruben Smoking Pipe Vase

Pottery

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Ruben’s floral planter in the shape of a smoking pipe with white glossy ceramic and gold flecks, black high gloss pipe handle and gold trim, circa 1950′s-60′s, is an excellent collector’s item. The markings on the bottom of the piece is a gold logo with RUBENS above and Japan below. Also the sticker which reads: “Rubens Original Made in Japan.” And the number 795 is embossed on the bottom.

Measures 5 1/2 inches tall at top of pipe handle pipe opening is 3 1/2 inches tall by 3 inches in diameter. There is a slight scratch on the pipe handle, slight crazing on body and a few manufacturing bumps. Also there is some wear on the gold trim. Overall in very good vintage condition.

Head Vase Museum gives this history for Rubens Originals.

Rubens Originals
”With its trademark Rubens ”R” logo gracing its pieces, Rubens remains of the most recognizable head vase producers in the world. The company began as the U.S. Bag & Supply Company, founded in the 30s by Israel Steinman. His son, Reuben, took over in 1947, renamed the company Rubens Originals 9to mimic the spelling of the famous painter), and began importing art ware from Japan. After purchasing an elegant vase on a trip to Montreal, Reuben Steinman had the piece reproduced in three sizes; in 1956, the very first Rubens Original head vase was released. Based in Los Angeles, the company began distributing a variety of collectibles, such as floral pottery and giftware, ceramic and plastic accessories, and figurines. Today, Rubens Originals continues to import novelty pottery, floral containers and artificial silk flowers from Japan.”