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Nautilus Reading Lamp
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Benjamin Hubbell, the architect of the Cleveland Museum of Art, acquired this vase from Louis Comfort Tiffany, with whom he collaborated on various projects. The shape of the nautilus shell provides the perfect space to conceal a light bulb, the newest form of technology at the time. As a result, this lamp was a critical success and sold both in this original form and with the later alteration of a bronze mermaid for the stand and an actual nautilus shell for the shade.
| Artist / Maker | Tiffany Glass & Decorating Company |
|---|---|
| Date | c. 1899–1902 |
| Culture / Origin | America, early 20th Century |
| Medium | bronze, leaded glass |
| Dimensions | Overall: 34.5 x 21.3 x 13.4 cm (13 9/16 x 8 3/8 x 5 1/4 in.) |
| Department | Decorative Art and Design |
| Type | Metalwork |
About the Artist
Tiffany Glass & Decorating Company (America, New York, 1892–1902) Full biography →
Provenance & Source
Image & data: Cleveland Museum of Art, CC0 / Public Domain.
Condition
A detailed condition report and high-resolution photography are available from our specialists in advance of the sale.
Shipping & Collection
Fine-art shipping with climate control and full insurance to over 120 countries; collection by appointment.
Buying at Matchless Pieces
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