TIFFANY STUDIOS | A Rare "Turtle-Back Universal Swing" Gimbal Candlestick

with period snuffer

Private Midwestern Collection

Alastair Duncan, Tiffany Lamps and Metalware, Woodbridge, Suffolk, 2007, p. 377, no. 1544

Overall very good condition. The turtle-back glass is intensely iridized as shown in the catalogue illustration. The coloration appears richer with greater depth and complexity when viewed in person. A few of the tiles with expected small and minor “clam shell” flecks to the edges, all which have been recently stabilized by a professional glass conservator (stable and not visually detractive). One tile with a small tight hairline crack, stable. The leaded turtle-back glass with some occasional light traces of surface soiling to the contours adjacent to the leadlines. The patinated bronze surfaces present with a rich russet brown and green patina, with scattered minor surface scratches, abrasions, and extremely minor traces of oxidation consistent with age and gentle handling. The coloration of the patina is much richer and warmer in tone than seen in the catalogue illustration, which is quite dark and does not effectively show the vibrancy and depth of the true patina. The favrile glass shade is in very good condition with scattered minor air bubbles and particulate inclusions inherent in the making and not visually detractive. The glass with some scattered extremely fine and light surface scratches which are slightly more concentrated around the bottom collar where the shade rests in the fitter, not visible when the shade is assembled. With a period snuffer (which de-mounts from the base) and shade fitter, both in very good condition. A superb example of this rare, complex and highly dynamic 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.