Tiffany Studios

William Donovan, Vice President of Libby Glass Company, Toledo, OH, circa 1910
By descent to William Donovan, Jr., Toledo, OH
Private Collection, Toledo, OH, circa 1950
Thence by descent to the present owner

Overall in very good condition. This lantern has documented provenance dating back to the period, and by all accounts all of its components appear to be original and undisturbed. There are no visible cracks to the upper register of the green Turtleback tiles, the geometric leaded glass, or the amber Turtleback tile on the bottom hinged door. The large green Turtleback tiles are intensely iridized, and display superb saturated color and luminosity when the lantern is viewed without illumination. With traces of a white surface residue on the interior of the lantern, and with minor traces on the exterior along some of the recessed contours of the bronzework and perimeter borders of the Turtleback tiles (this residue presumably from a prior cleaning and likely removable if desired). The patinated bronze surfaces with some light surface wear, rubbing to the patina and a few areas of minor surface discoloration consistent with age and gentle use. The patinated bronze ceiling plate, link chain, interior socket, and bottom hinged door all appear original and undisturbed. The latch on the hinged door has a tight fit when in the closed position. The patina around the bottom door aperture is abraded and rubbed due to continued contact over the years. When illuminated, the upper tiles are a vibrant green, and the bottom geometric leaded glass register transitions from green down to an opalescent white. (The glass is not as yellow as seen in the catalogue illustration.) A fine example of this rare and highly desirable lantern design.
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.