Design for a mosaic or a window

Tiffany Glass Company|Tiffany Glass and Decorating Company|Louis C. Tiffany|Tiffany Studios

late 19th–early 20th century · Watercolor, gouache, and graphite on textured white wove paper mounted to warm grey matt board · The American Wing

Although Northrop primarily designed windows, it is unknown whether this drawing was for a window or a mosaic, as Tiffany Studios also created beautiful mosaics made from favrile glass as part of interior-design commissions. Regardless, this work complements Northrop’s other works in terms of color, composition, and iconography. The red and pink flowers that surround the central fountain and spill over the low balustrade bedecked with wreathes convey Northrop’s characteristic sense of naturalism and movement in rendering flowers. The domed gazebo is enlivened by the splashes of yellow sunlight on its molding. Northrop conveys a sense of liveliness and richness that no doubt would have helped the client envision the final product.

Artist

Tiffany Glass Company|Tiffany Glass and Decorating Company|Louis C. Tiffany|Tiffany Studios

Date

late 19th–early 20th century

Medium

Watercolor, gouache, and graphite on textured white wove paper mounted to warm grey matt board

Culture

American

Department

The American Wing

Credit line

Purchase, Walter Hoving and Julia T. Weld Gifts and Dodge Fund, 1967