Tiffany Studios

Crystal Clear: The "Tulip" Cameo Vase

Tiffany Studios did occasionally employ pure transparent quartz, more commonly known as “rock crystal,” to create decorative objects. It was a substance frequently used by artisans since ancient times and a rare example made by Tiffany Studios is a small salt cellar in the Chrysler Museum of Art’s collection.

Around 1908, Tiffany Furnaces developed a new line of glassware described as “Rock Crystal.” Leslie Nash claimed this was the last innovation created by his father, Arthur J. Nash, the long-time superintendent of the glasshouse. Leslie wrote:

"My father was very proud of this glass. The charm of this glass was its delicate Fluorescence which gave an effect somewhat like moonstone only more delicate… He made about four or five of these vases and the price was well over $500 each. This cost is due to the many hours of cutting and engraving required for the deep relief."

Leslie’s claim as to the number of pieces made is inaccurate, as there are well more than five examples known to presently exist. There can be little doubt, however, that the vase offered here is one of the finest examples of “Rock Crystal” ever produced by Tiffany Furnaces. The exceptionally thick transparent glass is finely carved with tall, graceful leaves and slender stems. These extend to multiple gleaming tulip blossoms, many with polished highlights, in various stages of opening, with the petals in amazing depths of relief. It took the engraver over 180 hours to carve the piece, was priced at $375, and its excellence was recognized at the 1909 Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition where it was reportedly awarded first prize.

The craftsmanship and scale of the vase are truly exceptional and superbly supports Leslie’s thoughts: “My father’s fine mind is expressed so magnificently in this exquisite form and decoration with a moonstone quality in the glass. No words can do justice to this piece when placed in a proper light.”

- PD