Handcooler c. 1845 - 1860

"Handcooler" is a glass paperweight crafted by Compagnie de Saint Louis, a French glassmaking company, around the mid-19th century. The paperweight, measuring only 6.4 x 4.8 cm, showcases the intricate artistry of the "Millefiori" technique, meaning "a thousand flowers" in Italian. The technique involves creating a pattern of colorful glass rods, which are then fused together and sliced to reveal the intricate design. The paperweight's design features a central flower motif surrounded by numerous circular patterns in various colors, showcasing the beauty and precision of the "Millefiori" technique, a testament to the craftsmanship of the Saint Louis factory.