Paperweight c. 1845 - 1860

This paperweight was created by the Compagnie de Saint Louis, though the exact date of its creation is unknown. The company was one of several prominent glass factories that emerged in 19th-century France, producing luxury items for a growing middle class. Looking closely, we can see the intricate arrangement of millefiori, tiny glass rods fused together to create floral patterns, encased in clear glass. The technique itself reflects a convergence of artistry and industrial innovation, with factories like Saint Louis pioneering new methods for mass-producing decorative glass objects. This paperweight offers insight into the culture of 19th-century France, a time of rapid industrialization and social change. The rise of factories like Saint Louis helped to fuel economic expansion and transform the landscape of consumer culture. To truly understand the significance of objects like this, we can consult historical records, trade catalogs, and museum archives. By examining its social and institutional context, we can gain a deeper understanding of its cultural meaning and historical significance.