Paperweight c. 1848 - 1855

This paperweight was created by the Compagnie de Saint Louis. Encased in clear glass, a vibrant pink flower bursts forth, its layered petals radiating from a central, star-like core. The craftsmanship involved transcends mere decoration; it's an exploration of form, color, and texture. The flower's radial symmetry is meticulously constructed. Each petal is detailed with delicate stripes, creating a rhythm that draws the eye inward. The surrounding green foliage provides contrast and reinforces the floral subject, while the clear glass acts as both a protective layer and a lens, distorting the image in its mass. The paperweight transforms a simple object into a complex interplay of light and shadow. It reminds us that art can be found in the everyday, challenging our perception of beauty and craftsmanship. This is an object of contemplation.