Paperweight c. 19th century

This 19th-century "Paperweight" by Compagnie de Saint Louis is a stunning example of millefiori glasswork. The intricate design features a vibrant bouquet of flowers encased in clear glass, showcasing the technique's mastery. Millefiori, meaning "thousand flowers" in Italian, involves arranging colorful glass rods into a pattern, fusing them together, and then slicing them to reveal the cross-section. This process creates intricate floral designs that are highly sought after by collectors. This paperweight, currently at The Art Institute of Chicago, exemplifies the delicate beauty and craftsmanship of this art form.