Louis C. Tiffany Dragonfly Shawl

Description

Louis Comfort Tiffany (American, 1848–1933) began his career as a painter but moved quickly to interior decoration and leaded-glass windows. Beginning in 1898, Louis Comfort Tiffany adapted his method of making windows to the production of artful lampshades, frequently inspired by natural motifs. Extant preparatory sketches and watercolor cartoons indicate the great care that was taken in achieving the final design for the lampshades, many of which were custom-made. The motif on our lovely shawl is based on a working drawing from about 1905 in the Museum’s collection for a dragonfly shade.

Wool/Silk/Viscose. Imported. 74'' x 28''. Fringe: 1''.

Art History

Louis Comfort Tiffany (American, 1848–1933) embraced virtually every decorative arts medium, designing and directing the production of windows, mosaics, lighting, glass vases, pottery, metalwork, enamels, and jewelry. Of all his creative endeavors, stained glass brought Louis Comfort Tiffany the greatest recognition. His Favrile glass, patented in 1881, was internally colored with variegated hues, which produced a milky, opaque, and in some instances rainbow-hued appearance when light shone through it. Unusual effects were created by introducing textures and adding different layers of glass or plating.