Paperweight c. 19th century

This 19th-century paperweight, created by the Clichy Glasshouse, is a stunning example of millefiori glass. The intricate design features hundreds of tiny glass flowers embedded within a green base, creating a mesmerizing visual effect. Millefiori, meaning "thousand flowers," is a glassmaking technique that involves arranging colorful rods of glass together and fusing them, creating a cross-section of flowers. This delicate, hand-crafted piece showcases the artistry and skill of the glassmakers at the Clichy Glasshouse. The paperweight is now part of The Art Institute of Chicago's collection.