Paperweight c. 1845 - 1855

This paperweight was created by the Clichy Glasshouse sometime between 1837 and 1885. The factory was known for its exceptional craftsmanship and the complex designs of its glass paperweights. These objects, often seen as mere desk accessories, reflect the broader cultural fascination with nature and the decorative arts during the Victorian era. The carefully arranged floral motifs, encased in glass, speak to themes of preservation, beauty, and control over the natural world. Consider the historical context: the rise of industrialization and urbanization led to a longing for idealized rural landscapes. Paperweights like this offered a miniature, manageable version of nature, a comforting escape from the rapidly changing world. It's interesting to think about how the Clichy Glasshouse shaped and reflected societal issues of their time, encapsulating both the beauty and the constraints of the Victorian worldview.