This is a fine example of an early Tiffany Studios Turtleback lamp base, fresh to the market from a long-held estate collection and being publicly offered for the first time in over 75 years. The base is marked “Tiffany Glass and Decorating Company,” a designation used during the firm’s early period, generally dating this piece to circa 1892–1902. The oil canister is also marked with the Tiffany Studios mark, further supporting its early production.
This example represents the oil lantern version of the well-known Turtleback base, a form that is notably scarcer than the later electrified examples more commonly encountered. At some point, the lamp burner was converted to electric; however, the conversion was sensitively done, with no drilling or modification to the original bronze base components. Only the burner itself was altered, preserving the integrity of the original structure.
The lamp has been in the ownership of the same collector since at least the 1960s, possibly earlier, and the owner does not recall it ever having a shade. The original finish remains intact and well preserved, exhibiting a rich, untouched patinated bronze surface accented by a series of blue and green Turtleback glass tiles throughout.
See lot photos for additional details regarding the lamp, its overall condition, and measurements.
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Delivery Fee for this item: $75
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Terms of Sale:
- All items are sold As-Is, As-Shown in the photographs.
- Buyers are responsible for reviewing all photos in detail to assess condition, contents, authenticity, and any flaws.
- Items are used and estate-found; some imperfections may not be visible in the photos.
- All electrical and mechanical items are sold in UNTESTED condition.
- All statements provided are opinions based solely on our visual inspection.
- Dimensions, if not listed, may be visible within the photographs.
- Questions are typically answered within 48 hours; inquiries sent within 48 hours of the auction may not receive a reply.
Pickup Terms:
All items are located at our Oakville, CT gallery.
Pickup is by appointment only:
Days: Tuesday through Saturday (following the auction)
Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM EST
(A scheduling link will be emailed after the auction)
Note: If you cannot make the pickup window, you must contact us before bidding to make alternative arrangements.
Important: All items must be picked up by the Saturday following the auction. Items not collected will incur $5 per lot, per day storage fees unless prior arrangements are made. Items held over 14 days without contact may be considered abandoned and resold without further notice or refund.
Shipping Advisory:
We do not offer in-house shipping. All shipping must be arranged through a third-party shipper. Please obtain quotes before bidding—shipping can be expensive regardless of item cost (for example, a $10 item may cost $100+ to ship).
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Condition Reports:
The absence of a condition note does not imply an item is flawless. Reports are provided as a courtesy and reflect our team’s qualified opinions—not guarantees. LiveAuctioneers dimensions and weights may differ and are primarily for shipping estimates.
Buyers are responsible for reviewing all provided photos—these form part of the condition report. Flaws may appear in images even if not noted in text. By bidding, you acknowledge you have reviewed and accepted the photos and descriptions.
Reminder:
All items are sold “as is, where is” without warranties, guarantees, or returns. If in doubt, contact us before bidding with any questions.
