Tiffany Studios

Very good overall condition. The shade with approximately 20-24 cracks to the glass scattered throughout. The base with a rich brown and green mottled patina with only light rubbing and minor wear from age and gentle use. The rare floor base is well cast and has finely chased and applied decoration. The oil font has been converted for electricity and was drilled through the underside, through the firm's tag. The riser, socket cluster, sockets and switches all appear to be period. The "pigtail" finial is period but has been re-patinated. The final has a minute loss to the very tip of the "pigtail" and is lacking the internal screw on the underside. The shade displays a particularly strong color palette with superb color gradation and intense mottling.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This rare and elaborate telescopic floor base documents the transition from oil to electric lighting at the turn of the century.  Later versions of the firm's floor bases regrettably omit the wave-sculpted orb that conceals the oil font.