Louis C. Tiffany Dragonfly Embroidered Jewelry Roll

Description

The graceful dragonfly embroidery on our jewelry roll is based on a working drawing by Louis Comfort Tiffany (American, 1848–1933) in the Museum’s collection of a round dragonfly lampshade (ca. 1905). Beginning in 1898, he adapted his method of making windows to the production of artful lampshades, frequently donning nature inspired motifs—the dragonfly being one of his favorite sources of inspiration.

Silk. Contains 4 pockets, ring bar, and tie closure. 11 3/4'' x 7 3/4'' when open.

Art History

Louis Comfort Tiffany (American, 1848–1933) was one of America’s most acclaimed and multi-talented artists working in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. He embraced virtually every decorative medium, designing and directing the production of windows, mosaics, lighting, glass vases, pottery, metalwork, enamels, and jewelry. Of all of his creative endeavors, stained glass brought Louis Comfort Tiffany the greatest recognition. His favrile glass, patented in 1881, was internally colored with variegated shades of color or hues, which created a milky, opaque, and sometimes rainbow-hued appearance when light shone through it. Unusual effects were created by introducing textures and adding different layers of glass or plating.