Tiffany Studios

favrile glass and patinated bronze

Wilson Dorr Wing, Bangor, ME, circa 1900
By descent to daughter, Caroline Flint Wing
By descent to brother, Wilson Gordon Wing
By descent to nephew, Wilson Gordon Wing, Jr.
Thence by descent to the present owner

Overall in very good condition. The lily shades are a well-matched assembled set displaying highly complementary form and color. The shades are all beautifully iridized, displaying strong luminous color. One Lily shade with a small shallow edge chip to the top aperture rim (1/8 x 1/4 inch). A few of the shades with minor surface abrasions and light surface scratches to the interior. One shade with an old drip mark with surface residue. (None of these minor issues are visible when the shades are installed.) The patinated bronze mounts display an exceptionally rich russet brown and green patina. The bronze surfaces with light surface wear, a few light traces of surface oxidation, and with some small scattered areas of patina loss to the back plates, consistent with age and use. Both mounts retain their original base switches which are fully functional. The sconces present beautifully, displaying a highly sculptural form.
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.

Born in the 1840s, Wilson Dorr Wing, the original owner of this sequence of "Lily" lighting, purchased these pieces in 1900 for the family's residence at 412 State Street in Bangor, Maine.  His descendant, Wilson Gordon Wing was a prominent civic leader and financial figure in the New England region.  In addition to his involvement in state politics and the Board of Parole in Rhode Island, Wing was also a philanthropist and community leader known for his generosity as well as his integrity in the business world.  These "Lily" sconces were installed in the family residence on State Street until the 1970s.  The following three lots have since historically descended through the Wing Family to the present owner.