Tiffany Studios

Louis Kuehn, Milwaukee, WI, circa 1920s
George Kuehn and Phyllis Kuehn (née Christensen), Milwaukee, WI, circa 1960
Inez Christensen Davis, Milwaukee, WI, circa 1992
Thence by descent to the present owner, WI, circa 2007

Overall in excellent condition. This base is being consigned by descendants of the original owners from the period and by all accounts the base is in remarkable original condition and retains all of its original components aside from the top wheel which was recently replaced. All of the favrile glass mosaic tiles appear to be intact and undisturbed, with no visible losses or restoration. There are a few very small and minor cracks and minute edge flecks to the mosaic glass. The patinated bronze elements on the base show minimal gentle rubbing and display an exceptionally rich russet brown and green patina. The casting details on the base articulating the dragonflies and stylized branching are exceptionally crisp and well-defined. The sockets and paddle switches appear to be original and undisturbed. The base was recently rewired with a brown cloth cord. The mosaic glass selection on the base is exceptionally artistic displaying a strong luminous color palette. The decorative wavy lines seen throughout the mosaic glass are dynamic and well defined, heightening the visual interest of the base. The mosaic glass is intensely iridized imparting the cushion base with luminous hues of warm gold, magenta and red tones when seen with reflected light, and the base standard with tones of turquoise and silver. A superb example of this rare and highly desirable mosaic Dragonfly base. This base would be the ideal pairing with a small domed 14-inch Dragonfly shade.
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.

Louis Kuehn, the original owner of this lamp base, was born in Alsace-Lorraine, and later emigrated to the United States in 1888.  Kuehn was a dedicated businessman in the steel industry, and a well-known philanthropist in the city of Milwaukee, as well as having an interest in historical preservation. This highly artistic “Dragonfly” table lamp base remained in Kuehn’s collection throughout his life, and has descended through his relatives to the present day.