Tiffany Studios

Alastair Duncan, Tiffany At Auction, New York, 1981, p. 101, no. 274
Alastair Duncan, Tiffany Lamps and Metalware, Woodbridge, Suffolk, 2007, p. 377, no. 1544

Overall very good condition. The bronze surfaces present with a rich brown and green patina. With light surface soiling and minor traces of oxidation to the recessed areas. The turtle-back glass is intensely iridized as shown in the catalogue illustration. The coloration appears richer with greater depth and complexity when viewed in person. Some of the tiles with expected small and minor “clam shell” chips to the edges resulting from the hand-chipping process, not visually detractive. Two of the tiles have been sensitively reset and stabilized by a professional conservator, one near the top aperture and one near the bottom aperture. The reset tile near the bottom aperture with a small loss that has been sensitively filled in with solder adjacent to the lead line and presents harmoniously with the rest of the candleholder. An exceedingly rare and sculptural Turtle-Back inkstand by Tiffany Studios with strong visual presence and brilliant coloration.
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.