Paperweight c. 19th century

This 19th-century glass paperweight by Baccarat Glassworks, a French manufacturer known for its intricate glasswork, features a delicate green sprig. The paperweight, housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, showcases the artistry of Baccarat’s glassmaking techniques with its clear glass base and inclusion of a stylized plant motif, crafted with varying shades of green. These paperweights, small but highly detailed, were popular decorative items during the 19th century, a testament to the elegance and craftsmanship of the era.