Tiffany Studios

with two favrile glass inkwell liners

Collection of Maude and Sam Feld, New York
Sotheby’s New York, December 1, 2001, lot 342

Alastair Duncan, Louis C. Tiffany: The Garden Museum Collection, Woodbridge, Suffolk, 2004, p. 354
Alastair Duncan, Tiffany Lamps and Metalware, Woodbridge, Suffolk, 2007, p. 436 no. 1728
Paul Doros, The Art Glass of Louis Comfort Tiffany, New York, 2013, p. 186
Timeless Beauty, The Art of Louis Comfort Tiffany, The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, Atglen, PA, 2016, p. 177

Overall very good original condition. The bronze surfaces present with an exceptionally rich russet brown, red and green patina. The bronze surfaces with some occasional, very minor areas of light wear and surface scratches consistent with age and gentle use. With some very light surface soiling and traces of oxidation. The Turtle-Back tiles all appear intact and undisturbed and are in excellent condition. When seen with remitted light the iridized tiles present with an intense emerald green coloration; when seen with reflected light they display a brilliant range of jewel-tone hues. The inkstand retains two period Tiffany favrile glass liners which present with a vibrant yellow-orange coloration with strong iridescence. As is commonly seen in iridized favrile glass, the glass liners with some scattered red spotting, which is inherent in the sprayed application of the iridescent surface treatment, not visually detracting. One liner with scattered ink stains to the interior. The interior of the box lid with staggered pen hooks for three pens. The inkstand with a central drawer, which contains a smaller side drawer on its proper left side. An exquisite, sculptural object with strong visual presence. An outstanding example of this rare and highly desirable Tiffany inkstand model.
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.