Paperweight c. 1846s

This delicate "Paperweight" from the Baccarat Glassworks, dating back to the 1840s, features a colorful butterfly with intricate details. Crafted in the style of millefiori, a glassmaking technique that involves assembling small rods of colored glass, this paperweight reflects the artistry of the French glassmakers. The use of vibrant, contrasting colors, like the deep red of the butterfly's body and the bright blue of its eyes, creates a captivating visual spectacle. The "Paperweight" is now part of the The Art Institute of Chicago's collection, showcasing a fascinating piece of decorative art from a bygone era.