Tiffany Studios

the "Tyler" base with counterweight inset with "Turtle-Back" tiles

For the shade:
Lillian Nassau, New York, 1973
For the base:
Private Collection, Frenchtown, NJ
Sotheby's New York, March 28, 2008, lot 240

Overall in very good condition. The favrile glass shade is in excellent condition, with a few very small and minor air bubble inclusions inherent in the making. The glass shade with one small surface chip (1/4 x 1/8 inch) and a few minute flecks along the top aperture rim, which are exceedingly minor and not visible when the shade is installed. The shade displays superbly defined feather decoration with strong color and iridescence. When seen in person, the shade displays strong luminous tones of aqua, blue and magenta which are more saturated than in catalogue illustration. The counter-balance base displays an exceptionally rich russet brown and green patina with gentle rubbing and some minor surface abrasions to the counter weight consistent with age and gentle use. The base retains its original paddle switch and bronze screw terminals which secure the shade. The interior electric socket is fully functional, though the outer bronze socket casing is presently lacking. The Bakelite cord bushing on the base with a minor chip. The counter weight is inset with turtleback tiles each displaying a highly saturated iridescence ranging from blues, greens and magentas. With two very minor white paint abrasions to the top half of the weight measuring less than a 1/8 inch in diameter. The counterweight displays a rich russet brown and green patina with some minor rubbing and a few small consistent with age and gentle use and minor losses to the patina on the underside of the weight. A fine example of this rare counterbalance lamp model, showing strong iridescence and luminosity to the inset turtleback tiles and favrile glass shade.
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.