Tiffany Studios

Private Midwestern Collection
Sotheby's New York, June 17, 1989, lot 778

Overall in very good condition. The shade with approximately 50 cracked tiles dispersed throughout, all of which appear tight and stable. There are a few minor areas of separation to the leading throughout the shade, all of which appear stable. There are three small areas of re-leading to the exterior and interior of the shade which appear to have been executed many years ago, presumably to stabilize separations to the leading. The shade retains its original bronze ring mount. With period Viking ball and suspension rod. The bronze link chains probably period. With replaced socket cluster and patinated metal ceiling plate. The interior of the ring mount has been cleverly fitted with a vented patinated metal plate (a later addition to the fixture) which serves to keep the suspension rod in place and to vent the shade. With two period bronze elements that support the hanging hardware: one which is a decorative washer that sits just above the Viking ball, the second which is an adjustment ring that supports the ceiling plate. The shade presents beautifully in person, displaying a highly artistic glass selection and stunning color palette. The background glass is articulated in a full range of intensely mottled and striated cobalt blues, aquas and lavenders which create a dynamic contrast with the vibrant flower blossoms articulated in a full range of reds, oranges and yellows. A beautiful example of the model.
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.