Glass Message Board
Glass Identification - Post here for all ID requests => Glass Paperweights => Topic started by: uphoosier on May 22, 2006, 03:05:48 AM
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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)
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I can't read the signature, but it looks like a Michael O'Keefe to me. Lovely weight! :shock: Great beginning to a collection! :D
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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.
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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.