This piece is a classic vintage ceramic open-mouth frog widely used as a kitchen sponge/scrubby holder or a cigarette ashtray.

The Object DetailsOrigin & Maker: This specific design features a glossy bright green crackle glaze and a built-in cigarette rest/leaf protruding from its mouth. It was heavily produced and exported out of Japan during the mid-20th century (predominantly the 1960s to 1970s).

The Maker's Mark: The "Handpainted" backstamp paired with the stylized thistle flower was a common mark used by Japanese export ceramic factories during this era to denote hand-decorated novelty items.

Functionality: While originally designed with a cigarette rest inside the wide-open mouth to catch ash, collectors and vintage enthusiasts today commonly repurpose these kitschy figurines next to the kitchen sink to hold scouring pads or sponges

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