Christie's New York, March 30, 1985, lot 429

Overall in very good condition. There are approximately 12 cracks to the glass tiles dispersed throughout the shade. The shade has considerable surface soiling throughout, especially in the recessed contours of reticulated gilt bronze overlays, and would benefit from a sensitive cleaning. The gilt surfaces on the twisted vine base are rubbed and soiled. With period sockets, switches and finial. The gilt patina on the shade leading, base, socket cluster, riser, wheel, and finial are all consistent which strongly suggests that all of these components originated together from the time of execution. The vented finial cap is presently detached from the small top knop and threaded pin, but when screwed into the wheel the finial is entirely secured (the knop could easily be glued and re-secured to the finial cap). A highly naturalistic example of Tiffany's iconic poppy model, with a very artistic and well-varied glass selection. The coloration of the shade is perfectly suited for the gilt bronze twisted vine base and presents beautifully as a unit.
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.