AN IMPORTANT FLORIFORM VASE, CIRCA 1900

The manipulation of glass vases to the form of flowers is one of Tiffany's more literal translations of organic forms. This celebrated design demonstrates Tiffany's ability to create new forms and techniques while maintaining traditional concepts. In the process of working on the glass while still hot, the form and decoration are organically bound. The applied flowing threads of color are carefully pulled and twisted to create the desired effect. Proportion and detail are transformed, creating a surreal and also ideal representation of the flower form. The present floriform is exemplary in its execution as its slender stem supports a partially opened blossom with a complex combination of rich, deep colors with an irridized, textured surface that further enlivens the overall effect. The graceful semblance of leaves and petals are vividly suggested by the threads of color. Moreover, the survival of a floriform which boasts such a monumental size further demonstrates the technical capabilities of Tiffany's glassblowers. The rarity of this magnificent example, formerly in the collection of David Geffen, is further highlighted with an o marking, signifying a special order status.