Tiffany Studios

with a "Greek" base inset with favrile mosaic glass

Alastair Duncan, Tiffany Lamps and Metalware, Woodbridge, Suffolk, 2007, p. 6 (for the present example illustrated)

Overall in very good condition. The favrile glass shade is extraordinary, displaying highly artistic, layered decoration of vigorous abstract swirls. The shade is beautifully iridized on both the interior and exterior, and when viewed with reflected light displays a range of brilliant luminous hues. The glass with some small scattered air bubble and particulate inclusions inherent in the making and not at all visually detracting; the shade interior with some minor surface irregularities also inherent in the making. The top aperture rim with a small shallow edge fleck and a few minute pin-head size flecks, not detracting and not visible when the finial is installed. The interior of the bottom shade rim with red painted accession number GAT.69.4. The cast glass mosaic fringe appears original and intact, with approximately 10 cracked tiles dispersed throughout the perimeter (most of which have been professionally stabilized) and a few tiles with small minor flecks. Some of the copper wire supporting the glass tiles appears to have been replaced over time. The base is ornamented with a band of brilliant blue favrile mosaic glass tiles, all of which appear original, intact and undisturbed. These tiles are brilliantly iridized, imparting the glass with strong luminous color against the deep green patina of the base. The mosaic tiles with a few isolated small edge flecks and scattered minor edge wear. The patinated bronze surfaces display a rich russet brown and green patina with a few very light surface scratches, gentle rubbing and surface soiling to the recessed contours of the design consistent with age and very gentle use. The shade arm collar with isolated surface wear and minor patina losses. The lamp retains its original kerosene font and has been drilled for an electric cord and fitted with a later electric socket. With a rare small period heat cap that displays a complementary patina to the base. A magnificent early lamp with an outstanding favrile glass shade and unusual mosaic glass fringe.
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.