Vase

Art Historical Context

Step into the opulent world of Gilded Age America with this exquisite vase crafted by Tiffany & Co. in 1900. Standing at 8½ inches tall and 9¾ inches wide, this substantial piece—tipping the scales at a hefty 89 ounces—showcases the firm's mastery of silver and decorative arts. Made silver and silver-gilt, it adorned with freshwater baroque pearls amazonite, and opals, materials that evoke the natural world's irregularity and luster, blending functionality with lavish ornamentation. Tiffany & Co., a cornerstone of American luxury since the mid-19th century, produced such vases during a peak of innovation in metalwork and gem-setting. This example reflects the Aesthetic Movement's influence, prioritizing beauty and craftsmanship over mere utility. The baroque pearls' organic shapes and the opals' iridescent fire contrast beautifully with the amazonite's cool green tones, demonstrating Tiffany's skill in integrating semi-precious stones into functional silver objects for elite clientele. Housed in The Met's American Wing, this 2017 acquisition highlights the cultural prestige of American design at the dawn of the 20th century, when Tiffany pieces symbolized refined taste and industrial prowess. A true jewel of decorative arts, it invites visitors to appreciate the era's blend of artistry and extravagance.

About the Artist

Tiffany & Co. · 1837–present

Tiffany & Co., founded on September 18, 1837, by Charles Lewis Tiffany and John B. Young in New York City as a stationery and fancy goods store, quickly evolved into a premier American house for jewelry and decorative arts. Under Charles's leadership, the firm introduced innovations like the sterling silver standard in 1851 and the iconic six-prong Tiffany Setting engagement ring in 1886, establis...