Description

This Tiffany Table Lamp from the Floral Petals Series features individually hand-cut stained glass inspired by peonies, water lilies and daisies. Each glass petal is carefully assembled into a bronze or brass, tree-inspired base, creating a sense of natural harmony and refined character. With its 12-inch profile, this elegant bedside lamp casts a warm, colour-rich ambient glow, making it equally suited as a statement piece for the living room or a practical bedside table lamp. Crafted using traditional copper foil techniques and vibrant floral detailing, it stands as a collectible heritage design that brings timeless artistic light to bedrooms, studies and lounge spaces across UK homes.

A Spark of Genius: Birth of a Luminous Art

The story of the Tiffany lamp traces back to the late 19th century, sparked by an unexpected moment at a dinner gathering. Louis Comfort Tiffany, son of the renowned jewellery house founder, was captivated by the way coloured light shimmered through a broken red wine glass. This fleeting scene inspired a lifelong pursuit—to shape light as an artistic medium rather than a purely functional one, giving rise to a bold and expressive new art form.

From Nature to Icon: Evolution of a Timeless Legacy

Rejecting the harsh lines of industrial design, Tiffany turned to nature as his enduring source of inspiration—drawing from gardens, dragonflies and peacock feathers. First showcased at the 1893 World’s Fair, his creations transformed the flowing forms of Art Nouveau into glowing compositions of rich colour and light, quickly winning admiration among America’s cultural elite. Continued innovation followed, including the development of “Favrile” glass and an expanding range of motifs such as floral blooms, geometric patterns and the iconic Butterfly, establishing the Tiffany lamp as a treasured heirloom through generations.

The Canopy of Colour: Stories in Stained Glass

Tiffany lamps are celebrated for their richly detailed shades that capture the spirit of the natural world. Each composition tells its own story—through delicate florals, drifting dragonflies or softly poised butterflies. These motifs were deeply symbolic rather than merely decorative. Floral patterns reflect growth and renewal, while dragonflies and butterflies evoke transformation and the fleeting beauty of life. Tiffany’s vision was to invite nature indoors, filling interiors with colour, movement and luminous warmth.

The Foundation of Form: Strength Rooted in Nature

The bases of Tiffany lamps are formed from solid bronze or brass, lending both reassuring weight and understated luxury. Often sculpted to echo branch-like twists or slender stems, they mirror nature’s vitality and suggest growth and continuity. This robust metal construction not only ensures stability but also contributes a classic, enduring presence within the overall design.

A Century in the Making: The Art of Copper Foil

Each Tiffany lamp is carefully handcrafted through a time-honoured process. Artisans cut and shape individual pieces of stained glass before wrapping them in copper foil—a technique developed by Tiffany himself. The pieces are then hand-soldered together to form the finished shade. This intricate, labour-intensive method ensures that every lamp is distinctive and a genuine work of art, reflecting the skill and dedication behind its creation.

Your Glow, Your Space: The Final Touch of Ambiance

A Tiffany lamp brings warmth and refinement to interiors, helping to create an inviting and comfortable atmosphere.

• Living Room: Place on a side table to introduce soft, colourful light and a sense of quiet luxury.
• Bedroom: Ideal as a reading lamp, offering gentle illumination that is easy on the eyes.
• Kitchen: Add character to a countertop or dresser while preparing meals or enjoying a quiet moment.
• Foyer: Position in the entryway to create a welcoming first impression for your home.

More than a source of light, a Tiffany lamp is a distinctive accent that adds personality and lasting charm to any room.

“What truly moves the soul is not simply the colour of light, but the intention and warmth from which it is born.”

FAQ

Q: What exactly is a Tiffany lamp?
A: The term refers to lamps created in the style established by Louis Comfort Tiffany. They are best known for their handcrafted stained glass shades, assembled using a traditional technique and paired with a solid base. Tiffany lamps are valued for their artistry, colour and warm visual presence in the home.

Q: Why do some lines on the lampshade feel uneven or textured?
A: This texture is a natural result of genuine handcrafting. Each glass piece is individually wrapped in copper foil and hand-soldered into place. These subtle variations distinguish handmade lamps from factory-produced alternatives.

Q: How can I tell if the shade is real stained glass rather than plastic?
A: Authentic stained glass feels noticeably cool and weighty to the touch. When gently tapped, it produces a clear sound, unlike plastic. The glass will also remain unaffected by heat when used correctly.

Q: Why is there sometimes a slight oily residue on the glass?
A: This is a protective coating applied to the copper foil seams to prevent oxidation. It is part of the finishing process and helps preserve the lamp’s appearance and longevity.

Q: How should I clean the stained glass shade?
A: Always unplug the lamp and allow it to cool first. Use a soft, lint-free cloth lightly dampened with a gentle cleaner such as lemon oil furniture polish. Avoid abrasive materials or harsh chemicals.

Q: How long does it take to make one lamp?
A: Because each lamp is entirely handcrafted, involving hundreds of individually cut and soldered glass pieces, production typically takes 5 to 8 weeks. This careful process ensures exceptional quality and craftsmanship.