This is only the second time I've seen one of these. It's a Holland Molds ashtray, made in the shape of a piece of wood, decorated with various mining accessories. It has a lamp, a lunch pail, and a par of hobnail boots. It would probably have worked for other trades, but in Virginia where my grandparents had one, it was a coal miner's ashtray.
Has a terrific vintage look. Would made a great catch all. The hollow is large enough to keep up with your keys, wallet or whatever. There are some minor fleabites, and some of the black and silver paint has worn off the pottery. Even so, it looks great sitting on a table or shelf.