LAMP WITH MODERN RUBY-IN-ZOISITE SHADE ON AN ARTS & CRAFTS PERIOD HANDEL LAMP BASE

One of the more beautiful utilitarian examples of natural history, this is a custom leaded shade of sliced ruby in zoisite (see previous lot) fitted on a period Handel lamp base. The most popular lamps of the Art Nouveau and the Art Deco periods were Tiffany, Handel and Pairpoint during which time the Handel Company produced the finest reverse-painted lampshades. In June 1903, Handel commenced production of their own lamp bases—and the bronze base with custom foot offered here is one such example. The leaded ruby in zoisite lampshade is a marvel of modern craftsmanship. The ruby is cut with a diamond saw to a close tolerance for maximum translucency. Only select ruby crystals suffice; it’s not infrequent that material has to be scrapped because of crystal irregularities that only become apparent after several slices have been made. This is a highly decorative example combining the old and new and the natural and exceedingly well-crafted.

Estimate: $16,000 - 20,000