Tiffany Studios

Norman Potter and Douglas Jackson, Tiffany, London, 1988, p. 63 (for a related Turtle-Back candlestick)
John Loring, Louis Comfort Tiffany at Tiffany & Co., New York, 2002, p. 200 (for a related Turtle-Back candlestick)

Overall in very good condition. The decorated favrile glass shade is in very good condition, displaying beautifully rendered linear decoration and strong luminous coloration to the iridescence. The top aperture rim with some minor edge flecks and light surface soiling, consistent with age and gentle handling. (When the shade is installed these small edge flecks are not at all visible.) With minor rubbing just below the top shade aperture from gentle rubbing with the base mount over time. One of the inset Turtle-Back tiles in the base with a diagonal hairline to the lower right corner which has been sensitively stabilized. A few other tiles with very small and minor tight hairlines to the corner areas. The Turtle-Back glass is intensely iridized, displaying a wide range of luminous jewel-tone hues. The patinated bronze surfaces of the base display an exceptionally rich russet brown and green patina. The patinated bronze with some minor light surface scratches on the base plate, and gentle rubbing and light surface wear to the standard and socket housing consistent with age and gentle handling. With traces of surface residue on the base plate in some of the recessed contours beneath the Turtle-Back sphere. The underbase with four old felt glides. With original socket and paddle switch. A superb example of this rare series of Turtle-Back tablewares, displaying a particularly bold design and outstanding coloration.
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.