Tiffany Studios

Private Family Collection, Santa Barbara, California, circa 1920
Sam Battistone, 1950
Thence by descent
Ronald J. Gillio, Santa Barbara, California, acquired from the above in 1990

Overall very good condition. This dynamic group of three chandeliers have historic provenance going back to the period and display a highly complementary glass selection and color palette. When viewed in person the shades present with strong coloration and a striking gradation from fiery orange to more subtle yellow-green. All of the shades with some light surface soiling to the contours adjacent to the shade leading, consistent with age. One shade with 1 crack to the glass tiles. Another shade with 2 cracks to the glass tiles dispersed throughout; the Turtle-Back tile on the same shade has been reset, and the coiled wire decoration with some minor traces of white residue within the recessed contours. All of the Turtle-Back tiles appear to be original and display a warm yellow tone that is highly complementary to the rest of the leaded glass. The perimeter coiled wire decoration on each fixture is stable. With one period tiffany ceiling mount and two reproduction mounts. The ceiling mounts with scattered surface scratches, abrasions, rubbing, occasional discolorations and a few areas of white house paint. The chains appear to be original. All of the sockets appear to be later replacements. This superb suite of chandeliers display beautifully together and would be ideal for a hallway or domestic interior.
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.

This rare suite of chandeliers has originated together since the period and was part of the original furnishings in the 1920s of a Spanish style residence in Santa Barbara, California. The home, located at 1807 Santa Barbara Street, was known as "The Purple Passion House" on account of its exterior landscaping consisting of purple flowers. These chandeliers were later acquired by Sam Battistone, founder of Sambo's Restaurants, in 1950.