Paperweight c. 1845 - 1860

This glass Paperweight was made by the Compagnie de Saint Louis. Paperweights like this one gained popularity during the 19th century, a time marked by industrialization and evolving social structures. What's striking is the act of capturing a delicate bloom within a solid, manufactured object. It's a gesture that speaks volumes about our relationship with nature during that period. There is something about the bloom being suspended, perfectly still. Is it preserved or trapped? Consider, too, the audience for such an object. The paperweight was an item often found in the homes of the burgeoning middle class. It's easy to imagine a piece like this adorning a writing desk, perhaps anchoring letters that speak of commerce, family, and societal aspirations. This paperweight isn’t just a pretty trinket; it’s a symbol of how we seek to capture and control beauty.