In 1889, the first Tiffany table lamp with a vibrant leaded-glass shade debuted. Of all of the objects produced by Tiffany, the lamp is the most iconic. Tiffany lamps grew quickly in popularity. Some 124 designs were available for purchase by 1906. Viewed as luxury items, the Tiffany lamps varied in monetary value from 30 to 750 dollars. Assembled on wood molds, the intricate designs employ many different pieces of cut glass and demonstrate an attention to detail and sensitivity in color selection. Bases for Tiffany lamps were typically made from bronze, though there were exceptions. For example, bases from Grueby Pottery, based in Boston, were also used. This lamp with a bronze base has an elaborate shade with 700 individual pieces of glass divided into three repeated sections. The long flowers represent Trumpet Narcissus Daffodils. Typically, other artists were responsible for making the shades and bases, but Tiffany himself approved all designs.
Last Updated: 8/31/2011