Paperweight c. 1845 - 1860

This "Paperweight" from the Baccarat Glassworks, dating to 1845-1860, is a prime example of the intricate "Millefiori" technique. The paperweight features a central sphere, known as a "cane," made from hundreds of tiny colored glass rods fused together. The sphere is encased in a clear glass "button" that magnifies the intricate detail, offering a fascinating visual experience. This paperweight, now housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, is a testament to the glassmakers' skilled craftsmanship and the enduring beauty of millefiori glass.