Paperweight c. 1845 - 1860

This "Paperweight" is a stunning example of a millefiori glass paperweight, created by the Clichy Glasshouse, a renowned French glassworks. Dating back to the mid-19th century, the piece showcases the intricate millefiori technique, which involves arranging colorful rods of glass together and then fusing them. The resulting cross-section reveals a dazzling array of floral patterns, creating a miniature garden within the sphere. The paperweight, now housed in The Art Institute of Chicago, reflects the popularity of these decorative objects during the Victorian era.