Paperweight c. 1845 - 1860

This paperweight, created by the Clichy Glasshouse in the mid-19th century, exemplifies the popular Victorian art form of "verre églomisé." The intricate floral design, rendered in vibrant colors, is encased within a sphere of clear glass, creating a mesmerizing miniature garden. The technique of verre églomisé involves layering gold leaf onto glass and then applying a design in enamel or paint, which is then covered with another layer of glass, resulting in a shimmering, three-dimensional effect. This paperweight is a fine example of the delicate artistry and technical skill of glassblowing and decorative techniques practiced by Clichy Glasshouse during the mid-19th century.