Paperweight c. 1845 - 1860

This paperweight was made by Baccarat Glassworks, employing furnace work using molten glass and lampworking to create intricate floral details. Within its clear, pentagonal form, the weight captures a moment of suspended animation. At its heart, delicate glass flowers are arranged in concentric circles, their colors subtle yet vibrant. These weren't painted on, but pulled from rods of colored glass, fused, and then encased. The process required incredible precision and teamwork in the factory: a dance between chemistry, design, and skilled labor. Though seemingly a simple object, the paperweight reflects the social context of its making. Glass production was a highly specialized industry, with knowledge passed down through generations, but with industrial methods that were beginning to put pressure on individual makers. Appreciating this history enriches our understanding, blurring the lines between functional object and a precious, crafted artwork.