Tiffany Studios

Private Collection, Falconer, NY, circa 1905
Thence by descent
Craftsman Auctions, Lambertville, NJ, January 15, 2005, lot 26
Acquired from the above by the present owners

Overall in very good condition. The Turtleback tiles are in excellent condition, with no visible cracks or surface chips to the Turtleback tiles. The exterior of each tile is intensely iridized, displaying a spectacular range of fully saturated jewel-tone hues. When viewed with reflected light these tiles show vibrant luminous tones of aqua, magenta, green, orange and golden yellow. When the chandelier is illuminated these tiles emit a warm emerald green glow. Each Turtleback tile is plated on the reverse with white opalescent glass. One of these white glass panels on the interior of the shade has a vertical hairline crack. The lead caming on the exterior of the shade with surface soiling and minor discolorations, and with one small puncture hole (1/4 inch diameter) to the caming just below the top aperture rim. The exterior of the shade with a few occasional small and minor paint drips. The patinated bronze reticulated heat cap and hook are original Tiffany components, and the heat cap is elaborately ornamented with onion-form devices. The patinated bronze surfaces with light surface wear, rubbing and discolorations consistent with age and use. All six sockets and paddle switches appear to be period and undisturbed, and each socket retains its period bakelite insulator. With a replaced bronze link chain and lacking a ceiling canopy. Please note that a chain of any length as well as a ceiling canopy can be easily executed by a Tiffany restorer to accommodate any ceiling height. A superb example, displaying an outstanding series of Turtleback tiles. The chandelier looks equally attractive when viewed with reflected or illuminated light.
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.