Tiffany Studios Daffodil and Flame Chandelier

Tiffany Studios Daffodil Chandelier, circa 1900

Leaded glass, patinated bronze. 12 5/8 in. high, 37 in. diameter, 39 in. drop

Confirmed as the only known example of this shade model in existence, this chandelier represents the pinnacle of Tiffany Studios' ambition in leaded glass and bronze at the dawn of the twentieth century.

Description

 The shade measures 37" in diameter, composed of twelve leaded glass panels separated by patinated bronze ribs that extend beyond the perimeter, terminating in graceful scrolled spirals. These eight arms give the fixture an extraordinary sculptural silhouette, projecting outward. A  leaded glass cap crowns the composition above, while six chains descend from a Viking ball at a total drop of 39".

 Within each of the shade's eight sections, daffodil blossoms, buds, and leaves are arranged in two overlapping circles, their petals articulated in rippled glass that refracts light in constantly shifting patterns. Stylized floral bulbs and stem accents are rendered in Confetti and Streamer glass throughout. When illuminated, the shade reveals deep emerald and greens, vivid cobalt blue accents, warm amber, and the signature orange red blooms that blaze with an intensity suggesting living flame. This is early experimental glass from the period when Tiffany's craftsmen were pushing the boundaries of what was technically possible.

Historical Significance

 This chandelier belongs to the "Octopus" electroliers, large hanging shades with radiating bronze ribs and spiraled terminals first seen in an 1898 workshop photograph. Where the standard Octopus employed simple geometric glazing, this shade replaces the gridwork entirely with a complex naturalistic daffodil motif, the most ambitious elaboration of the form ever attempted. The sheer expense and complexity of execution meant that this may be the only example ever produced. It is a singular object from the moment when Louis Comfort Tiffany and Clara Driscoll were producing their most daring work.