Paperweight c. 19th century

This 19th-century paperweight, crafted by the Clichy Glasshouse, is a stunning example of millefiori glassmaking. The intricate pattern of multi-colored flowers is created by fusing together rods of colored glass, which are then sliced to reveal the beautiful cross-section. This technique, popular in the 19th century, gives the impression of a miniature bouquet trapped in glass. The paperweight, now housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, showcases the artistry and precision of the Clichy Glasshouse, a renowned French glassworks known for their innovative and highly decorative works.