Tiffany Studios

Franklyn C. Shattuck, Neenah, Wisconsin, circa 1905
Thence by descent
Acquired from the above by the present owner

Alastair Duncan, Tiffany Lamps and Metalware, Woodbridge, Suffolk, 2007, p. 157, no. 649 (for the shade model)

Overall very good condition. This chandelier has historic provenance going back to the period, and by all accounts the shade and accompanying hardware have all remained together since the period. When viewed in person the shade presents with a very sensitively executed gradation from vibrant orange and ochre to more transparent and opalescent glass as you descend from the shade’s upper edge downward to the inset Turtle-Back tile, which displays a warm soft orange with remitted light. The Turtle-Back tile appears to be original and undisturbed. The favrile glass balls present with vivid iridescence and an artistically varied color palette and all appear to be original and undisturbed. Several of the favrile glass balls with hairline cracks which have been recently sensitively stabilized by a professional Tiffany conservator. The floral cast-bronze register is in very good condition with some light surface soiling and minor traces of oxidation to the recessed contours, consistent with age. The hanging chains, rod and socket cluster, and sockets all appear to be original and undisturbed. A superb example of this model, likely representing a special commission from the period. While more commonly seen as a table lamp, it is highly unusual to see this shade model configured as a chandelier.
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.

Franklyn C. Shattuck was a founder of the Kimberly-Clark Corporation and a famous American businessman and entrepreneur.  His residence, located at 547 East Wisconsin Avenue in Neenah, Wisconsin, was built in 1893, the same year as the Chicago World's Fair.  Shattuck attended the Fair and was taken by Tiffany’s exhibition.  In 1905, when his residence was undergoing renovation, Shattuck ordered this striking Tiffany jeweled chandelier in a color palette that complemented the gold leaf ceiling in his study.  While more commonly seen as a table lamp, the present lot is a rare example of this jeweled shade design configured as a chandelier with a central Turtle-Back tile.