Bowl 1893 - 1896

This iridescent glass bowl was made by Louis Comfort Tiffany, the American artist and designer known for his innovative work with glass. Tiffany's Favrile glass, from the Latin word fabrilis meaning handcrafted, showcases an interest in experimentation with colors and textures. The bowl's surface shimmers with a metallic sheen, achieved through a complex process of layering different metallic oxides onto the glass while it was hot. The lustrous effect, resembling peacock feathers or oil on water, was highly sought after during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Tiffany's factory employed skilled artisans who executed his designs, blurring the lines between fine art and craft production. The creation of Favrile glass involved a labor-intensive process, requiring expertise in glassblowing, chemistry, and decorative techniques. Looking at this bowl, we can appreciate how the fusion of artistry and industrial production allowed Tiffany to create luxury objects that captivated the eye and challenged traditional notions of art.