TIFFANY STUDIOS | "Turtle-Back" Lantern

with hinged bottom door inset with a circular "Turtle-Back" tile

John and Katsy Mecom Collection, Houston, Texas
Sotheby’s New York, Highly Important Tiffany Lamps from the Collection of John W. Mecom, Jr. Houston, Texas, April 22, 1995, lot 2

Alastair Duncan, Tiffany Lamps and Metalware, Woodbridge, Suffolk, 2007, p. 282

Overall very good condition. The leaded glass throughout is in excellent condition with some extremely light surface soiling concentrated to the outer contours adjacent to the leadlines. The turtle-back tiles all appear original and undisturbed and display brilliant jewel tone iridescence when viewed with reflected light and deep blue-green hues when viewed with remitted light, which is accurately represented in the printed catalogue illustration. The lantern retains its original bottom hinged door with inset turtle-back tile, which displays a rich yellow-green hue. The patinated bronze surfaces display an exceptionally rich russet brown and green patina with some occasional minor surface scratches and abrasions consistent with age and gentle handling. With the original chain and a later replaced ceiling canopy, both in very good condition. A gorgeous example of this elegant lantern design displaying a superb glass selection.
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.