Paperweight c. 1845 - 1860

This paperweight was made by the Clichy Glasshouse in France sometime between 1837 and 1885, composed of glass. The Clichy factory was one of the best at producing these objects, using a technique called millefiori. This means "a thousand flowers" in Italian. The process involves creating bundles of glass rods, which are then heated and stretched to reduce their diameter while maintaining their internal pattern. These thin rods are then cut into cross-sections. The individual pieces are then arranged into a design and encased in clear glass. The result, as you can see, is a jewel-like object. This particular example is especially beautiful, with its complex floral design and intricate detail. The paperweight is a testament to the skill and artistry of the Clichy Glasshouse. But it also reflects a wider social context. The rise of industrial production allowed for the creation of luxury items like this, which were then sold to a growing middle class. The paperweight, therefore, is both a beautiful object and a reflection of its time.