The artwork titled “Peacock Mosaic from the entrance hall of the Henry O. Havemeyer house” is an exquisite piece by artist Louis Comfort Tiffany, created in the year 1891. It represents the Art Nouveau movement, a style that flourished towards the end of the 19th century and into the early 20th century, known for its intricate, flowing designs often inspired by natural forms. This genre is typically classified as design, demonstrating an intermingling of artistic aesthetics with functional elements.
The artwork depicts two peacocks amidst a luxuriant background, resplendent with an assemblage of glass tesserae and tiles that shimmer with iridescent colors. The peacocks stand facing each other, with their ornate tails unfurled behind them, forming an expansive arch over a figure positioned at the center. The figure, possibly feminine, is adorned with a golden halo or ornament and is clothed in green, set against a cream backdrop, suggesting a sense of serene divinity or an anchor of calm at the heart of the mosaic.
The peacocks’ feathers showcase a rich variety of textures and colors, sparkling with embedded pieces that mimic the birds’ eye patterns and create a sense of depth and movement. The rest of the surrounding mosaic field is composed of myriad smaller tiles, arranged in swirls and floral patterns that hint at the organic inspiration of Art Nouveau. Intricate attention to detail is evident, and the luxurious materials used express the opulence typical of that period’s design, with pearls and semi-precious stones enhancing the artwork’s visual impact.
Overall, the artwork is a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship and artistic vision of Louis Comfort Tiffany, embodying the luxury and ornamental exuberance characteristic of the Art Nouveau movement.
