Paperweight c. 1845 - 1860

This paperweight was made by Baccarat Glassworks, and features delicate strawberries and leaves encased in clear glass. The process of creating such a piece involves immense skill and precision, working with molten glass at high temperatures. The glassblower must carefully layer different colors and shapes to achieve the desired design, which is visible through the magnifying lens effect of the clear dome. The weight and tactile nature of the paperweight are important to its appeal, and it's not just a visual object, it’s also a sensory experience. Looking at this paperweight, we can appreciate the expertise required to manipulate glass into such a detailed and appealing form. This prompts us to question how we value both the artistry and labor involved in its production. It challenges the hierarchy between the fine and decorative arts, and reminds us that the skill of the maker is central to how we understand and value an object.