Tiffany Studios

Harry Martin, New York, NY, circa 1950
Thence by descent to the present owner, 1963

Overall in very good condition. The all inset Turtle-Back tiles appear original and undisturbed and are in very good condition with no visible cracks or chips. The Turtleback tiles are beautifully iridized, and when viewed with reflected light remit strong luminous color in a range of brilliant hues. The patinated surfaces show minimal surface wear and rubbing, light surface soiling, and a few areas of minor discolorations consistent with age and gentle use. The inkwell retains its original gilt bronze inkwell and hardware to the interior. The clear glass insert with a few minor edge chips, which are not visible once the element is properly installed. The coloration of the glass tiles and patinated bronze are even more saturated than seen in the catalogue illustration. A very attractive work displaying particularly strong tiles.
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.

While the present lot falls undoubtedly within Tiffany’s “fancy goods” production, this inkstand is characterized as much by its thoughtful engineering and architectonic sensibility as by its richly iridized Turtle-Back decorations and charming scale.  Pulling down on the hinged front door reveals the interior inkwell, which is supported by a “gimbal” mechanism.   This clever design employs gravity to keep the inkwell level while the door is opening and closing.  With the present lot, the ingenuity and rarity of this particular Tiffany model is enriched by its meaningful provenance.  Harry Martin, who acquired this inkstand in the 1950s, would have delighted in its intelligent construction:  he was himself an accomplished inventor of small mechanical objects and chemical compounds.  The inkstand has descended to Martin’s daughter.  To date only one other example of this exceedingly rare model has appeared at auction, sold at Sotheby’s in March 2005 from the Estate of Cecile Singer (lot 80).