Tiffany Studios

Julien Joseph Cuny, decorator at Tiffany Studios, New York
Thence by descent to the present owner

Overall in very good condition. With a few minute air bubble and particular inclusions; the interior upper rim with some very small and minor faint tool marks; all inherent in the making and not at all visually detracting from the vase. The exterior with a few light and fine surface scratches at the outermost contours of the shoulder. A superb example from this rare and iconic “Morning Glory” paperweight series distinguished by its elegant elongated neck which creates a larger canvas to depict the exceptional foliage decoration. When viewing the vase in the round, the Morning Glory blossoms and foliage are cohesively continuous around the full circumference imparting the vase with strong lyrical movement and visual interest. The vase displays a brilliant range of strongly saturated vibrant colors to the flower blossoms, and exquisitely rendered decoration to the surrounding leaves and foliage. Please note that the catalogue photography was taken with both frontal reflected and interior remitted light; when viewed under standard reflected light conditions the vase is less saturated; the coloration is more subtle and naturalistic. An outstanding example which epitomizes the highest artistry of Tiffany glass. -----
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.

Julien Joseph Cuny, son of a French glass and mirror manufacturer who emigrated from Alsace Lorraine circa 1885, started working as an apprentice for Tiffany Studios at the age of twelve, and became one of the firm's highly skilled decorators specializing in church and private commissions.  The present lot was acquired by Cuny directly from the firm and it has descended through his family to the current owner.  The “Morning Glory” model first appeared in 1913, and it received much acclaim when it was exhibited at the Paris Salon the following year.  Compared to Tiffany’s other glassworks, the “Morning Glory” was rather expensive due to the extraordinary level of artistry involved in this particular technique.  The design, which drew inspiration both from Japanese aesthetics and from one of Louis C. Tiffany’s own watercolor paintings, was highly innovative in the way it incorporated transparent glass to place greater emphasis on the flowers and enhance their dimensionality.