Tiffany Studios

with a telescopic "Chased Pod" library standard base

Charles Maurer, Cleveland, OH
Acquired from the above by the present owners, circa 2002

Overall in very good condition. The shade with approximately 15 cracks to the glass tiles dispersed throughout. All of these hairlines appear stable, and have recently been sensitively stabilized by a professional Tiffany conservator. Additionally, the upper shade ring was stabilized where there were some very minor separations present. The bronze base displays an exceptionally rich and satisfying russet brown and green patina. The bronze surfaces throughout with some occasional light surface scratches and abrasions around the perimeter contours of the cushion base, and with some small and minor scattered traces of surface residue and discolorations, all consistent with age and gentle handling. The telescoping device on the base (which allows one to adjust the height of the base if desired) is fully functional. The interior of the base column is fitted with a safety spring which is designed to absorb any shock when the base is telescoped. This safety spring is presently causing the inner rod to sit slightly above the outer column, which is commonly seen with this model. All six electrical sockets and paddle switches appear original and undisturbed to the base. With a replaced finial displaying a complementary patina to the base. A stunning example of this iconic floral pattern, displaying a fully saturated and highly artistic glass selection that imparts the shade with strong visual movement. When viewing this lamp firsthand, the colors are far richer and more nuanced than see in the catalogue illustration, which do not fully capture the radiance and luminosity of the glass. A superb example of the model with outstanding color.
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.

Artist, civic leader and philanthropist Lindsay Morgenthaler has been a lifelong admirer of the works of Tiffany Studios. In 1983 she found a kindred spirit in Charles Maurer, who she enlisted to help her assemble a collection of Tiffany lamps. She started with her favorite flower, acquiring the Peony shade model with the aspiration of bringing the beauty and joyfulness of a vast garden into her home's interior. Her collecting broadened over time so that every room was enlivened by the warm, inviting glow a Tiffany lamp.

Working as a team, Charlie personally curated the collection while Lindsay designed the rooms to highlight the unique attributes of each lamp. Their twenty years of collaboration on this collection yielded a number of superb Tiffany lamps, such as the vibrant Laburnum lamp (lot 35), which Lindsay exhibited formally in a mirrored environment so that her visitors could enjoy all 360-degrees of the shade no matter their position within the space. The rich, prismatic Peony lamp (lot 34) was placed before a window overlooking Lake Erie to infuse the room with the colorful abundance of spring and summer during the winter. She mixed flora with fauna, as well, placing sprightly Dragonfly lamps (lots 36 and 38) within the interior to bring life to her Tiffany "garden."

Each lamp in this exquisite Tiffany collection held an important place in the heart and home of the collectors.  The incredible artistic quality of these lamps is enriched by their many years of being treasured by the Morgenthaler family, to whom they brought much joy.