Tiffany Studios Venetian Pattern #1669, #1700, #1867

An original price list for Venetian pieces reads: “This set is decorated with fields of richly chased ornament relieved by a deeply carved band of ermines at the base of each piece. The style of decoration was used extensively in the sixteenth century by Venetian craftsmen in making tooled leather objects. Reproduced in metal this ornament gives the rich effect found in East Indian metal work”.

These pieces were produced in a gilt bronze (gold), and introduced in 1908, staying in production for many years. The gold finish is occasionally highlighted with painted or polychrome highlights. As for the little creatures that run around the bottom of these pieces, they are ermines, not vermin. So don’t call them “weasels” – not at these prices.

All pieces are stamped: TIFFANY STUDIOS/NEW YORK and numbered.

Four inkwells were made in the Venetian pattern:

#1641 – a double inkstand, pictured and described in this Inkipedia posting: https://inkwellresearch.com/inkipedia/tiffany-double-inkstand-venetian-pattern/?

#1669 – Inkwell and Pen Tray 10” x 10” x 4” The piece pictured has beautiful enameling and highlights. It sold for $3395 in February 2017. Sale prices usually are in the $800 to $1600 range.

#1700 – Small 3” x 3” x 2 ¼” The piece pictured sold for $523 in February 2021.

#1867 – Large 4 ¼” x 4 ¼” x 4” The piece pictured sold for $750 in June 2017.