Tiffany Studios

Reverend Henry B. Wooding, Washington D.C., circa 1950
Thence by descent to the present owner  

Overall in very good condition. The glass with a few very small and minor air bubble inclusions inherent in the making. The interior surfaces with a few applied glass threads, also inherent in the making. The exterior with a few light surface scratches, and with some gentle rubbing and a small and minor surface abrasion to the outermost contour, consistent with age and gentle handling. The interior with traces of light surface soiling. The underbase with two old felt glides and some small traces of old adhesive. The interior is beautifully iridized to heighten the effect of the Millefiore decoration and provide a rich, luminous visual presence. The glass is complexly layered to achieve a strong sense of depth in the composition. The colors range from a deep forest green to lime green and earth-tone browns with accents of the milky Millefiore blossoms which display pale blue and rich brown centers. The vase is slightly less saturated than seen in the catalogue illustration, and is far more nuanced in color and tone when viewed in person. An outstanding example executed on a monumental scale, displaying a highly artistic and impressionistic portrayal of the Millefiore blossoms, leaves and vines. The dynamic composition imparts with vase with strong visual interest and movement.
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.

The present example demonstrates both the technical and formal artistry of the "Paperweight" technique.  This vase was executed by marvering "Millefiore" glass pieces to a single gather of glass, and then encasing this core with more layers of colorless glass to achieve a heightened sense of depth and vivid coloration.  First introduced in the early 1900s, this technique was quickly developed into an artistic technique especially suited to express Louis C. Tiffany's affinity for the naturalistic portrayal of flowers, foliage and all things natural in his designs.  The present offering is distinguished by its impressive monumental scale and highly artistic, naturalistic decoration.