TIFFANY STUDIOS | Counter-Balance Desk Lamp

For the shade:
Private Collection
Acquired by the present owner, late 1990s
For the base:
Private Collection, Florida
Acquired from the above by the present owner, late 1990s

Alastair Duncan, Tiffany At Auction, New York, 1981, p. 87
Alastair Duncan, Tiffany Lamps and Metalware, Woodbridge, Suffolk, 2007, p. 87

Overall very good condition. The favrile glass shade is brilliantly iridized. When seen with reflected light the shade displays a cool silver hue with green and blue undertones, which transitions to soft pink at the bottom edge. The bottom edge is decorated with a golden scroll motif against a deep indigo background. The favrile glass with some occasional extremely minute air bubbles, particulate inclusions and surface irregularities inherent in the making and not visually detractive. The shade with some expected minor surface scratches at the top collar where the shade is installed into the base, not visible when the shade is installed. The patinated bronze base is in very good condition and displays an exceptionally rich russet brown and green patina. The bronze surfaces with some occasional minor surface scratches, abrasions, small areas of wear, and traces of oxidation consistent with age and gentle handling. The base with some traces of very light surface soiling to the recessed contours of the design. The socket and paddle switch appear to be original and undisturbed. This lamp presents beautifully in person, with exquisitely rendered decoration to the shade and outstanding rich coloration and iridescence.
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.

The Favrile glass shade on the present example is distinguished by its unusual and striking decoration.  When viewed with reflective light, the shade displays exquisitely refined pulled-feather decoration in silver-turquoise hues punctuated by a richly saturated ultramarine rim, all brilliantly iridized.  When seen with transmitted light, the pulled feather decoration is suggestive of a complex spider web accentuated by the warm glow of the lamp’s interior light.