Paperweight c. 1845 - 1860

This small, swirling glass paperweight, created by Clichy Glasshouse in the mid-19th century, is a captivating example of French glassmaking. The paperweight’s design showcases the intricate techniques employed by glassblowers in the Clichy region, using a combination of opalescent white and vibrant blue glass to create a mesmerizing spiral pattern. The focal point of the piece is a single, stylized flower, rendered in a rich purple hue that adds a pop of color against the cool tones of the swirling background. This paperweight, a miniature artwork, epitomizes the craftsmanship and artistic vision of 19th-century glassmaking in France.