Overall very good condition. The shade with approximately 4 cracks to the glass tiles dispersed throughout. All of these hairlines appear stable. The shade with very light surface soiling to the adjacent contours of the shade leading. Eight tiles appear to have been replaced at some point in the history of the piece with period glass: seven above two overlapping dragonfly wings and one closer to the shade crown. This restoration is sensitively executed and not visually detractive. The cabochon jewels in the central row of the shade show uneven chipped edges. One cabochon jewel appears to have been reset/stabilized in the past. The glazed earthenware base was executed by Grueby Faience Company and presents with a rich turquoise glaze that is particularly harmonious and complementary to the coloration of the shade. The Grueby pottery base is in very good condition and shows no evidence of restoration when examined under blacklight. The leaf motif extending upward from the base are distinguished by Grueby’s more textural glaze compared to the smooth glazed surface of the shoulder and neck, which imparts the base with a dynamism that is highly complementary to the diversely colored and textured shade. With some irregularities inherent in the glaze, not visually detractive. The base mount is in good condition with a few light areas of wear to the bronze surface. The base standard is very slightly misaligned. All three sockets appear original and undisturbed. With a replaced riser and finial. The underside of the base retains the original paper label applied by Bigelow Kennard & Co., Tiffany’s Boston-based retailer who also dealt in Grueby ceramics. When viewed in person, the shade presents with a much more nuanced glass selection and color palette than seen in the catalogue illustrations, ranging from bright blue, aqua and turquoise to contrasting rich and warm yellows and oranges. A strong example of Tiffany’s iconic Dragonfly model displaying rich coloration and an artistic and harmonious base pairing.
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.