Tiffany Studios

Alastair Duncan, Louis C. Tiffany: The Garden Museum Collection, Woodbridge, Suffolk, 2004, p. 247 (for a closely related "Lemon Tree" ceiling fixture)

Overall in very good condition. The shade with approximately 10 cracks to the glass tiles dispersed throughout. All of these hairline cracks have been recently stabilized by a professional glass conservator. Additionally, two of the green background tiles have been replaced with period Tiffany glass that is harmonious in the color palette, and three “Dutchman” (supporting copper foil lines) have been added to stabilize pre-existing cracks. The shade has minor traces of surface soiling concentrated around the perimeter edges of the lead lines, ceiling mount, and to some of the recessed contours of the glass. The shade leading is finely executed and beautifully rendered, with some rubbing to the patina in the central region of the shade. The patinated metal frame of the fixture with surface scratches and gentle rubbing consistent with age and use. The interior pin to the hinge has been replaced; the hinge is original to the fixture. The ceiling light is presently fitted with a custom-designed four-light socket cluster in the style of Tiffany Studios that mounts directly to the ceiling and is effectively designed to provide evenly-dispersed light to the fixture. An extraordinary example of this rare fixture, displaying a highly artistic and well-varied glass selection distinguished by the fully saturated color palette of the grape clusters ranging the full spectrum of reds, purples, burgundys, blues and yellows. Each piece of glass displays distinct artistic nuances, including a number of different glass types, and each quadrant of the shade is equally strong with outstanding visual interest. -----
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.

The grape motif is depicted by Tiffany in several different formats, including irregular border table lamps, trellis hangers, windows, and even fancy goods.  The reason for its popularity within Tiffany’s oeuvre may have been inspired by his interest in portraying change and temporality in nature through thoughtful, impressionistic glass selections.  The prismatic coloration of the present “Grape” fixture evokes the onset of autumn with green leaves transitioning into passages of yellow ochre and red bunches of grapes seemingly at the peak of their ripeness.  Representing the only known example of this elaborate design, one can reasonably conclude that this particular fixture was likely a special commission.  A closely related "Lemon Tree" ceiling fixture sharing the identical form and ceiling armature is known, possibly commissioned as part of the same series.