Dragonfly Table Lamp (Tiffany-style)
Decorative Art, Lead Glass Lamp Shade with Base • Manner of Tiffany Studios; commercial manufacturer unknown
Style & Movement
Art Nouveau Revival
Medium & Technique
Stained glass (favrile and opalescent), copper foil technique, leading, and cast metal base with bronze patina
Creation Period
Late 20th to early 21st century (modern reproduction)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 16 to 20 inches in diameter; circular dome format
Subject Description
A domed lamp shade featuring repetitive dragonfly motifs along the lower border, with their filigree wings extending horizontally. The body of the shade is composed of a dense mosaic of glass 'feathers' or leaves in autumnal tones including red, amber, and green, interspersed with vibrant yellow glass cabochons or 'jewels'.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent/Very Good; the glass appears intact without visible heat cracks or missing segments
Estimated Market Value
$300 - $800 USD (for a high-quality modern reproduction)
Auction Estimate
$200 - $500 USD
Provenance History
Likely private collection; evidence of modern electrical components suggests a contemporary manufacturing origin rather than an antique 1900s provenance
Art Historical Significance
While not an original Louis Comfort Tiffany piece, this lamp represents the enduring legacy of the Art Nouveau movement and the popularization of the 'Dragonfly' design originally conceived by Clara Driscoll. It serves as a functional tribute to the intersection of craft and industrial design.
Notable Features
Highly saturated color palette, prominent use of pressed glass jewels for texture, and the characteristic dragonfly filigree on the wings which adds fine detail to the leaded structure
Condition Issues
Minor oxidation potentially present on lead lines; no significant structural damage visible from the provided angle
Conservation Recommendations
Periodic cleaning with a soft, lint-free cloth; avoid harsh chemicals that could strip the patina from the leading; use LED bulbs to minimize heat stress on the glass and solder