Tiffany Studios New York "Belted Turtleback" Table Lamp

The "Belted Turtleback" table lamp by Tiffany Studios New York is a sophisticated exploration of monochromatic design. The dome lampshade is divided into three distinct tiers, blending contrasting elements with subtlety. The uppermost tier features rectangular panels of amber glass, gradually increasing in size as they descend, until interrupted by a horizontal band of richly textured emerald green glass. The lowest tier returns to rectangular panels in a horizontal arrangement but with a consistent size. The shade is mounted on an urn-shaped base made of spun bronze. In ancient Greece, urns were multifunctional, used for storing food, holding ashes, and offering gifts to the gods. Early versions of the urn base, created in the 1880s, were designed to hold paraffin oil canisters. As Tiffany Studios transitioned to electrification, the urn base evolved, becoming more elongated and refined in design.