At a glance
Step behind the iridescent glass to discover the precise watercolor sketches and collaborative labor that fueled the most famous studio of America’s Gilded Age.
Meet the artist
Why go
A rare display of nearly 120 conserved drawings, offering a look at Tiffany projects that were either lost to history or never moved past the drafting table.
You'll see
Watercolor design sketches · Leaded-glass lamps · Mosaic studies · Contributions by women and émigré artisans
Pace of visit
The high density of intricate drawings and finished decorative objects rewards a steady, observant pace.
Don't miss
The section highlighting the often-overlooked women and émigré designers whose technical skill shaped the studio’s distinctive aesthetic.
Artlovers Tip
Look closely at the annotations on the drawings, then compare them to the nearby glass pieces to see how specific colors and textures evolved during production.
Inside the exhibition
Designing the Gilded Age — Drawings from the Studios of Louis C. Tiffany at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in Manhattan, New York, reveals the paper-based origins of iconic American decorative arts. By pairing finished objects with their original watercolor designs, the exhibition traces the creative process from initial concept to the final, shimmering glass and enamel.
The presentation features nearly 120 conserved works on paper, including detailed plans for stained-glass windows, intricate lamps, and large-scale mosaics. While Louis C. Tiffany is the central figure, the selection emphasizes the collective nature of his studio, showcasing the essential contributions made by women designers and skilled émigré artisans who translated sketches into three-dimensional luxury.
This exhibition offers a rare opportunity to view designs for commissions that no longer exist or were never realized, providing a more complete record of Art Nouveau craftsmanship. By focusing on the draftsmanship behind the glass, the Met provides a technical and social context for the era's most recognizable luxury objects.
Worth travelling for?
A rewarding and scholarly look at American design history, ideal for those who appreciate the technical intersection of drawing and decorative craftsmanship.
Experience as an Artlover
Entry is included with general museum admission; check the venue website for current timed-entry requirements and opening hours for the Manhattan location.
Designing the Gilded Age — Drawings from the Studios of Louis C. Tiffany
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