Tiffany Lamps at the NYHistorical Soc A Dazzling Display that Just Opened Don't Miss It

The 4th floor of the NY Historic Soc just opened this past April with several new exciting galleries including the Tiffany Lamps exhibit.  (Work is still being done on this show.)  The Tiffany Lamps owned by the NYHistoric Soc constitutes one of the most extensive & exclusive collections.  There are 100 lamps on display and dramatically lit which enhances the fixtures' splendid illumination.  The  room offers a magical, warm glow.  There are various lamp styles: desk, standing, chandeliers and artifacts.  Louis Tiffany (b Amer 1848-1933) is the innovative creator & designer.  But, he was not the sole designer.  Clara Driscoll (b Amer 1861-1944) was responsible for designing many of the lamps that were made.  The lamps were first created at the end of the 19th C up until 1928.  Driscoll's role was kept clandestine but Tiffany recognized her talents & contributions.  She was remunerated on par with her male co-workers.  The distinctive art nouveau designs contain a kalaidascope of bejeweled colors.  The designs reflect elements of nature, particularly floral arrangements, fruits and dragonflies.  The base or leg of the lamps are works of arts themselves.  Many have intricate glassworks imbedded or form unique shapes that adds beauty.  The glass shades come in a wide variety of shapes: domes, conical, uneven lace like borders and some have webbed lattice work on top.  I thought the lamps with the dripping, uneven bottoms were exquisite.  And, I was drawn to the designs with floral poppies & Japanese influenced landscapes.  There is a floating glass staircase in the center of the room which takes you to a 2nd level housing more of the collection.  There are only 3 lamps (2 standing & 1 desk lamp) that are not kept encased.  They are presented as you walk into the gallery.  There are interactive displays and interesting curatorial information.  "There were so many imitations made that it is often difficult to ascertain the real Tiffany lamps from fakes."  Perhaps, Antiques Roadshow would know.  I do know the Tiffany Lamps on display at the NYHistoric Soc is a lovely example of American artistry and a beacon to augur the exciting new 4th floor galleries.