Paperweight c. 1845 - 1860

This paperweight was created by the Compagnie de Saint Louis. We don’t know exactly when, but it is a beautiful, small, and intimate object. Consider the context in which this object was created. Paperweights like this were popular in the 19th century, a period of immense social change marked by the rise of industrialization and a growing middle class. These were the patrons of such glass works. The intricate designs encased in glass reflect a desire for order and control in a rapidly changing world. It’s a world of craft and industry, of home and factory. But look closely. The millefiori technique, where many small glass pieces are arranged to create complex patterns, speaks to the human labor and skill involved in its creation. Each element is carefully placed, reflecting both the individual artistry and collective effort of the Compagnie de Saint Louis. The paperweight invites a tactile experience. It reminds us of the emotional connection we form with everyday objects, and their capacity to reflect our human condition.