Topic: Suggestions Please Nice looking paperweight Unidentifed Age & Origin

[RobS]

Hello everyone, I just acquired a paperweight, it looks good but unfortunately I can't determine the origin, it has a slight bit of wear with a flat ground bottom. I don't know if it's American, Italian or ?? So many newer copies and Chinese out there, and not being a paperweight person I don't know the difference so any insight pointing me in the right direction would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance

[tropdevin]

Hi

My feeling is Italian, particularly in view of the shape, but I would not be 100% certain.

Regarding the Chinese option, IMHO there may not be much to choose quite often between a Chinese and a Murano pedigree, given that Chinese weights have been sold in large numbers over the years in Murano....they are not necessarily in different leagues. Run of the mill weights are run of the mill, whoever makes them! To me, Murano does not necessarily imply quality: they do make / have made many reasonable quality paperweights, but....sadly.....

Alan

[Lily of the Valley]

Hello, RobS, :hi:

I agree with Alan that your paperweight is Murano, and would put the age estimate at 1960's to 1970's.  My first thought is that the fruit depicts figs which are very Italian.  They sit on a ground of nicely-done latticinio, which is also seen in Murano weights from this time period.  The profile and flat polished base are hallmarks of Murano weights as well.  IMHO, you have a nice example there!

Lily    

[Baked_Beans]

What a lovely paperweight !

 I for one am a huge fan of Murano paperweights as well as antique French ones and most others. I agree with Alan that quality can be lacking in Murano weights but though my eyes there is a great deal of artistic expression within the design of Murano canes which has developed over time . For me it is the difference between a perfectly manicured garden and a wild one !

Cheers, Mike. 

[SophieB]

Hi Robs,

Welcome to the Board, RobS!

For once I disagree with Alan  . I really like a nice Murano weight.

They often have cheerful colours and use aventurine so freely that it is a pleasure to behold (like a magpie, I am attracted by everything that shines). They brighten any cloudy day (And boy! do we need this today... )

Even the best ones are quite cheap still. No real downside then...

Indeed, this example is neat and sweet. I, for one, would be very happy to find space for it on my shelves.

SophieB

[tropdevin]

***

Did I say I do not like Murano weights, Sophie ?? We have at least 4 weights from Venice in our collection ( 3 by that Bigaglia guy...). However, we do have a nice (honestly!) interlocked millefiori garland on muslin weight too, from Murano, and it is dated 1845....! Oh, and several unusual 1950s ones that are for sale....

Alan