Author Topic: My first paperweight - now I may be hooked (Read 639 times)

uphoosier · « **on:** May 22, 2006, 03:05:48 AM »

I've never paid much attention to paperweights, but this one was screaming my name. I know this is backwards, but now I'd like to know what I have. I'm off to the library tomorrow for books to learn some of the terminology, but I'm hoping someone here can help with a couple of questions. First, is there a nomenclature for this type of design? Second, I can make out the coptright of 1/87, but can't for the life of me read the signature. Does anyone recognize the name? Many thanks.
Ken

(http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2003-9/385128/CIMG5907.jpg)
(http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2003-9/385128/CIMG5910.jpg)
(http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2003-9/385128/CIMG5909.jpg)

Leni · « **Reply #1 on:** May 22, 2006, 07:35:29 AM »

I can't read the signature, but it looks like a Michael O'Keefe to me. Lovely weight! :shock: Great beginning to a collection!

KevinH · « **Reply #2 on:** May 22, 2006, 05:55:07 PM »

Hi Ken,

For a brief mention of the work of Michael O'Keefe, see The Art of the Paperweight by Lawrence H. Selman (1988). The colouring and general effect of those weights was achieved by a processs called "silver veining". O'Keefe's work was said to be reminiscent of early work by Dominick Labino - another name to check out.

Although my main focus is on older Scottish weights, I would like to have some examples of O'Keefe's weights as I think they were amongst the best of that type.

uphoosier · « **Reply #3 on:** May 23, 2006, 03:22:25 AM »

Thanks so much for your comments. The signature is M O'keefe. I'll check out the book you mentioned. I've been collecting marbles for a while, and as with paperweights, I am impressed with the technical skill required to achieve the desired patterns as well as the artistry in visualizing what the finished product will look like. I just hope my tatste gravitates to something that fits my wallet.