Is This an Original Tiffany Lamp?

Tiffany lamps, generally, is the term for Tiffany style lamps, Tiffany reproduction lamps, and the original Tiffany lamps made by the Tiffany Studios, New York. Original Tiffany lamps are made by the Tiffany Studios New York in late 1800s and early 1900s. In 1932, Tiffany studios went bankrupt and all assets were liquidated (an original Tiffany lamp would be dated between 1900 and 1932).

• Tiffany reproduction lamps are reproductions of the original Tiffany lamps.
• Tiffany style lamps are stained glass lamps inspired by the original Tiffany lamps and other stained glass and Art Nouveau subjects.

These stained glass lamps have many components and have shades containing many pieces of stained glass held together by a soldered web of copper. Some stained glass lamps have stained glass bases as well, but most are bronze.

An artist first, Louis Comfort Tiffany would always look for some new techniques in order to develop a unique process for formulating stained glass. In turn, he created bolder colors, opalescent sheens and a broader range of textures for artisans. As a result he patented four new types of glass over a 20-year period and individually kept working with teams of craftsmen to manufacture stained glass windows, lamps, and lamp bases. The lamps, as well as all other Tiffany objects were exclusively designed either by Tiffany himself or by artists working under his direct supervision. Most commonly the bases of the lamps were made in the form of fine sculptures using bronze.

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Determining authenticity of Tiffany lamps is complex. Tiffany's marks and marking systems changed over the years. Some are clear, but others are obscure. Pieces aren't always signed or retain their original identification. Some have had unauthentic markings added. Original Tiffany lamps bear the company's name and perhaps a reference number. Some have original paper labels. Shades were also marked with a bronze pad. It's possible that a specific Tiffany signatures can be found pressed into the metal rim of the lamp's shade, which were sometimes signed Tiffany and Co., but were usually signed Tiffany Studios. Every lamp and shade was assigned with a model number to facilitate the filling of orders.