Paperweight c. 1845 - 1860

This glass paperweight was crafted by the Compagnie de Saint Louis, a French glass manufacturer with roots reaching back to the 16th century. Paperweights like these gained popularity during the 19th century, against a backdrop of burgeoning industrialization and evolving social hierarchies. Though functional, paperweights became coveted objects of beauty and status, adorning the desks of the bourgeoisie. The swirling patterns of blue and amber, encapsulated in glass, create a mesmerizing dance of color and light. The symmetrical design and precise execution speak to the skill of the glassmakers. With its floral center, this object invites reflection on nature, and humanity's relationship to the natural world. Consider the weight of this small object, both literally and metaphorically. It is a reminder of the objects we choose to surround ourselves with, and how these objects shape our identities and reflect our values.