Paperweight c. 1848 - 1855

This paperweight was produced by the Clichy Glasshouse in the 19th century. Immediately, one is struck by its swirling composition, achieved with alternating bands of claret and a steely blue-grey, all encased in clear glass. The lines emanate from a concentrated point at the center, creating a mesmerizing vortex. The spiral form, often found in nature, here feels meticulously controlled, reflecting a tension between the organic and the geometric. The artist's mastery is evident in the flawless execution of the pattern and the smooth, tactile quality of the glass. The paperweight as a form serves a utilitarian purpose, yet this example transcends mere functionality. The spiral motif might be interpreted through semiotics, a system of signs, as a symbol of continuity, or the passage of time, trapped within a seemingly static object. It challenges our understanding of stasis and movement. The paperweight’s flawless, reflective surface is not only aesthetically pleasing, but offers an invitation to continuously reinterpret its meaning.