Paperweight c. 1845 - 1860

This paperweight was made at the Clichy Glasshouse in France, sometime between 1837 and 1885. Encased in clear glass is a delicate blue flower, a testament to the skill of the glassmakers and the aesthetic tastes of the era. Clichy, along with other French glasshouses, were at the forefront of paperweight production, a craft that blossomed during the 19th century. These objects were not just functional, but also reflections of the period's fascination with nature, science, and decorative arts. The bourgeoisie, with their growing wealth and interest in collecting, fueled the demand for these intricate creations. Looking closely, you’ll see how the arrangement of the flower, its colors, and the very material it's made from all contribute to its meaning. Nineteenth-century glassmaking was an industry shaped by specific social and economic conditions, and its products like this paperweight speak volumes about the culture of the time. To understand this object better, we can consult historical records of glass production, trade, and design. By placing the paperweight within its historical context, we can appreciate its significance as a cultural artifact.