Tiffany Studios

Lillian Nassau, New York (for the shade)
Leonard Trent, New York (for the base)
Private Collection, New York
Sotheby's New York, December 10, 2005, lot 511

Overall in very good condition. The shade with approximately 30-33 cracks to the glass tiles dispersed throughout, which is a reasonable number of cracks considering the vast number of individual pieces of glass required to create this intricate pattern. The blown favrile glass body of the base is in remarkably good condition showing no visible cracks or damage. The glass body of the base with a few small air bubble inclusions and minor surface imperfections inherent in the making, and with some very light surface scratches and abrasion marks. The patinated bronze elements on the base are in very good condition showing light rubbing consistent with age and gentle use. The top bronze crown on the base with a small surface indentation. The base retains its original bronze oil canister with the original bronze shade arms and gas burners. The bronze riser cone, socket cluster and pull chains affixed to the oil canister above the shade arms were replaced when the lamp was converted to electricity. The three shade arms show minor surface abrasions and wear to the patina from contact with the shade over the years, and the shade arms show very slight irregular bending. One of the replaced pull chains is lacking its end terminal. With a rare decorated period drop finial. The jewel color palette of the shade is slightly more saturated than it appears in the catalogue illustrations and the reds and magentas articulating the azalea blossoms show greater variation and artistic nuance to the glass. The bronze patina of the base is exceptionally rich and the green favrile glass in the base is more vibrant in color than seen in the catalogue illustration. A superb example of this rare Tiffany floral pattern, beautifully paired with an early and rare blown favrile glass base.
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.