TIFFANY STUDIOS | "Daffodil" Vase

Skinner Auctioneers, Bolton, Massachusetts, January 21, 1985
Acquired from the above by the present owner

Martin Eidelberg, Tiffany Favrile Pottery and the Quest of Beauty, New York, 2010, p. 89

Overall very good condition. This vase is executed in “bronze pottery”, TIffany Studios’ term for the innovative technique they developed to electro-plate copper over glazed ceramic. The exterior of the vase displays a complex and naturalistic arrangement of daffodil blossoms in high relief, which are enhanced with gilding. In the interior of the vase the underlying ceramic structure is visible and displays a green and white glaze. The exterior surfaces of the vase with rubbing to the gilding throughout, minor surface scratches, abrasions, and minor losses to the patina around the rim, consistent with age and gentle handling. The interior glazed surface is in very good condition with scattered minute surface irregularities inherent in the making. The interior has been examined under blacklight and does not show any evidence of prior restoration. A deeply sculptural work with impressive stature when viewed firsthand.
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.

Around 1908, Tiffany Studios introduced the "bronze pottery" line of wares that were put into production at Tiffany Furnaces in Corona.  The newly developed technique employed in their execution was initially intended for kerosene table lamp bases, but it quickly spread to a variety of vessels and forms intended for home furnishings and decorative display.  The specialized fabrication technique combined the pottery and metalware departments of the firm, using the cutting-edge technology of electroplating.  First, a ceramic would be fired to the bisque state, glazed on the interior, and fired again.  The piece would then be prepped for copper plating through the process of electrolysis and finally patinated to achieve the look of bronze.  The present vase depicts a variety of naturalistic daffodil blossoms articulated in relief, demonstrating the exceptional skill of Tiffany's craftsmen to capture so many refined details through the complex and innovative process of making bronze pottery.