TIFFANY STUDIOS | Seven-Piece “Abalone” Desk Set

comprising a pair of blotter ends, pen tray, letter opener, rocker blotter, box, and inkstand

Sotheby's New York, November 20, 1987, lot 222
Acquired from the above by the present owner

Alastair Duncan, Tiffany At Auction, New York, 1981, p. 50
George A. Kemeny and Donald Miller, Tiffany Desk Treasures: A Collector’s Guide, New York, 2002, pp. 49-50
Alastair Duncan, Tiffany Lamps and Metalware, Woodbridge, Suffolk, 2007, pp. 470-472
William R. Holland, Tiffany Desk Sets, Atglen, PA, 2008, pp. 107-114
Timeless Beauty, The Art of Louis Comfort Tiffany, The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, Atglen, PA, 2016, p. 176

Overall in very good condition. The silvered bronze surfaces are beautifully accented by the iridized abalone decorations. Each of the elements with some light rubbing to the silvered patina, minor surface scratches, abrasions, and light surface soiling to the recessed contours consistent with age and gentle use. The letter opener with some very gentle bending, only visible upon close inspection. The rocker blotter lacks a blotter pad, and the inkstand lacks a inkwell liner. An exceptional example from the “Abalone” desk set series.
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.