Dragonfly Lamp

About the Art

Clara Driscoll managed the Women’s Glass Cutting Department for Tiffany Studios, where she designed this dragonfly lamp and many others. She trained women glasscutters—who were not allowed to work in the studios with men—to follow templates she created.

Inspired by nature, this lamp’s shade features a radially repeating dragonfly design paired with a softly fluted base reminiscent of a tree trunk and roots. Individual glass cutters adjusted the colors and types of glass used in each piece, meaning that the choices and artistry of multiple shine through in any given object.

Driscoll has only been credited for her talent, leadership, and expertise since 2007 when scholars realized the depth of her contributions to Tiffany Studios. Previously, Louis Comfort Tiffany, the head of the studios, was given full credit as opposed to the many skilled craftspeople (especially women) who worked there.

FEATURED IMAGE
Clara Driscoll (American, 1861–1944), Dragonfly Lamp, Tiffany Studios, about 1910, leaded glass, bronze, 27 x 20 1/4 x 20 1/4 inches (68.6 x 51.4 x 51.4 cm). Museum purchase with funds provided by the James F. Dicke Family in honor of David and Lynn Goldenberg, 2001.48