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

Title: My first paperweight - now I may be hooked
Post by: 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)
Title: My first paperweight - now I may be hooked
Post by: Leni 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!   :D
Title: My first paperweight - now I may be hooked
Post by: KevinH 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.
Title: My first paperweight - now I may be hooked
Post by: uphoosier 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.