THE CIGARETTE AS PART OF A MEAL

Before tobacco was banished from tables in many restaurants and homes, smoking had evolved into a common meal accompaniment and in some circumstances constituted a course in itself, or at least a component of dessert. This wing of the Virtual Museum includes advertisements showing people enjoying cigarettes with their dinner and products designed to facilitate and normalize mealtime smoking.

Ashtray in my china pattern, Wedgwood Florentine.

Luncheon plate with compartments for a sandwich, a cup, and an ashtry with a cigarette rest.

Ashtray with cupholder and platform for a box of matches

Bakelite music box/cigarette dispenser. Press the button and the compartments (prefilled with cigarettes) slowly open to allow guests to help themselves, Once everyone has been served, the device closes again. The tune "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes" plays throughout. See home page for more views.

Tabletop cigarette holder

"Dinner matches"