Tiffany by Design

Explore the construction, fabrication, design, and qualities of authentic Tiffany lamps made between 1900 and 1918. Tiffany Studios produced thousands of lamps in hundreds of designs, although many of the designs were closely related. Examining the ways in which the forms, patterns, and motifs were changed and adapted illuminates the extraordinary design vocabulary of Tiffany Studios. This selection of over 80 magnificent color photographs clearly demonstrates how shade patterns range from deceptively simple to extraordinarily complex. Learn how the Tiffany designers manipulated a decorative scheme by repetition of the motifs: sometimes patterns are repeated within the shade and sometimes a shade has no repeats. The nuance of color may shift from top to bottom in a delicate progression or around the shade, as flowers are different from season to season. By closely observing the many varied designs of Tiffany shades, a deeper understanding of the quality and beauty of these objects is made possible.