TIFFANY STUDIOS | Twelve-Light "Turtle-Back" Moorish Chandelier

Private Collection, New York
Acquired from the above by the present owner, 1992

Alastair Duncan, Tiffany At Auction, New York, 1981, p. 66 (for a related chandelier)
Alastair Duncan, Tiffany Lamps and Metalware, Woodbridge, Suffolk, 2007, p. 266 (for a related chandelier)

Overall in very good condition. When viewed firsthand, the chandelier displays striking visual presence due to the complexity of its form and decoration. The chandelier features twelve blown glass tulip shades encircling a central decorated blown glass shade, which is inset within a crown of inset “Turtle-Back” tiles. The tulip shades are interspersed with hanging ball chains which all appear to be original and present with scattered minor surface scratches, abrasions, minor dents, and traces of oxidation and discoloration consistent with age. The bronze surfaces of the wire decoration with scattered light wear and surface soiling consistent with age. The twelve tulip shades represent an assembled group, each decorated with green pulled feather motif and luminous iridescence. Each of the shades with scattered minor air bubbles and particulate inclusions, inherent in the making and not visually distracting. Some shades with scattered minor chips or flecks to the upper rims, consistent with age and handling and not visible when the shades are installed. One shade with a small area on the upper rim that appears to have been ground down, not visible when the shade is installed. Two shades are applied with old paper labels; one shade is applied with the old retailer’s paper label. One shade with a small hairline crack to the interior of the shoulder measuring approximately 1 inch long, only visible upon close inspection. The central glass shade is decorated with a pulled feather decoration that is highly complementary to the tulip shades. The central shade with scattered minor air bubbles and particulate inclusions inherent in the making, and with a small internal hairline crack within the pontil mark, only visible upon close inspection and also likely inherent in the making. The inset Turtle-Back tiles all appear to be original and undisturbed and display harmonious golden coloration that complements the blown glass elements. One Turtle-Back tile with a small hairline crack to the corner, stable and not visually distracting. The sockets and paddle switches appear original; half of the sockets are outfitted with paddle switches. An incredibly dynamic and complex work with impressive scale and beautiful decoration.
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.