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Striking vintage Korean desktop smoking set honoring Admiral Yi Sun-sin and the famous Korean Geobukseon, or “Turtle Ship.”
This elaborate three-part set features a dark antiqued metal finish with copper/bronze-toned highlights and extensive raised decoration. The centerpiece is a detailed spiked Turtle Ship with dragon-head bow containing the tabletop lighter mechanism. At one side is a sculptural turtle with removable shell covering the ashtray, while the opposite side has a raised dragon-decorated lid over the cigarette/storage compartment.
The long rectangular base is decorated with Korean writing, historical motifs, an image of the Turtle Ship and English text referring to “The personal words and handwritings of Admiral Yi.” The base is also clearly marked MADE IN KOREA.
A particularly interesting survivor of Korea’s mid-to-late 20th century decorative smoking culture, combining military/naval history with a substantial period desk accessory.
Approx. 13" long x 8" wide.
Specifics:
• Country of origin: Korea / South Korea
• Era: Circa 1970s–1980s, likely 1980s
• Theme: Admiral Yi Sun-sin / Korean Turtle Ship / Geobukseon
• Type: Desktop smoking set
• Includes ashtray, cigarette/storage compartment and tabletop lighter
• Material: Cast metal/alloy with antiqued bronze/copper-tone finish
• Removable fitted components
• Marked MADE IN KOREA
• Korean registration/application label remains inside
• Decorative Korean and English inscriptions around base
Condition:
Good vintage display condition with age-related surface wear, patina, scuffs and finish variation visible throughout. The lighter mechanism is present but DOES NOT CURRENTLY WORK and is sold strictly as part of the collectible smoking set. No fuel included. Interior compartments show expected signs of age/use. Please review all photographs closely for condition and details.
A fantastic conversation piece for a Korean history collector, Admiral Yi enthusiast, militaria collection, vintage smoking collection or dramatic office/library display.
Keywords: Korean smoking set, Admiral Yi Sun-sin, Yi Sunsin, Turtle Ship, Geobukseon, Kobukson, Korean naval history, vintage ashtray, table lighter, cigarette box, desk set, Made in Korea, Korean collectible
