Topic: Chihuly Paperweight

[m1asmithw8s]

Mod: This thread has been created out of another as it has now become a discussion in its own right. Ian (member Pooleandpaperweights), had said in the other thread:

... Stranger things have happened, like the signed Chihuly weight I brought for £7 at a small fair once.....

And then, discussion developed ...

Wouldn't mind seeing pictures of that Chihuly weight if you feel up to posting them 

[TxSilver]

I am surprised -- I didn't know Chihuly designed any weights. He hasn't made any glass personally since the late 70s when he lost sight in one eye, though he still designs. I thought his designs were big, stylistic things or installations made up of small pieces.

[w84it]

The Chihuly weight that Ian refers to is in my collection (I'm his dad!).

It's signed "Chihuly 77".

I'll try and take some pix, but I suspect it won't photo that well  -  it's flattish with a subtle radiating swirl of feint purple colour inside the otherwise clear round weight.   Around 9 cm in diameter.

Cheers

Keith.

[w84it]

here's a couple of pix of the Chihuly weight, one showing the signature.

[m1asmithw8s]

THANKS FOR THOSE PICTURES 

[TxSilver]

I don't like to be the little cloud over the head of people, but has the paperweight been documented or authenticated? The sig is very different than the ones used on his later designs. Chihuly lost his eye in an accident in 1976, if online bios are correct. Maybe you could write to them and see if the paperweight is one of his designs. It would be nice to know for sure if he designed any paperweights. Perhaps they were pieces of some of his installations??

[w84it]

Hi there Anita.

You're right  -  I have no authentication at all.   

So I've emailed the Chihuly website with the pictures.  If they reply, I'll post it on the board.


Keith.

[jamalpa36]

Hi all

One thing I would query, is the date 77 or 74 ?

Roy