Tiffany Studios Peony Lamp

Tiffany Studios 22" Peony shade, model #1505, on an adjustable Library Base. Circa 1903

The Peony is widely considered one of the masterworks of the Tiffany Studios leaded glass repertoire. The shade measures 22 inches at its lower border with its greatest width of approximately 23 inches occurring at the start of the apron. The distinctive globe-cone contour was designed to be viewed from above, making it ideally suited for placement on a table height base. This example is exceptionally vibrant. The full-blown peonies are rendered in rich reds, deep reds, and warm oranges, set against a confetti glass background that adds remarkable texture and visual complexity to the composition. The foliage is executed in lush greens with yellow and gold accents at the flower centers. The artists employed undulating and configurated glass to capture the layered, ruffled quality of the peony blossoms, and the protective bracts surrounding the flower buds are deftly depicted. The adjustable Library Base features a beautiful brown and verdigris patina, bringing the overall height to approximately 31 inches.