Millefiori Appraisal

Millefiori Art Glass Paperweight

This item is a circular, domed art glass paperweight featuring an intricate millefiori design. The paperweight is crafted from clear glass, encasing a vibrant floral pattern composed of numerous small, multicolored cane sections. The dominant colors in the millefiori canes are bright red, teal blue, and creamy white, with some canes also incorporating brown or a darker outline, creating a three-dimensional effect and depth. The canes are arranged in concentric circles, forming an overall radial pattern that radiates outwards from a central, smaller, intricately detailed millefiori inclusion. This central element appears to be a smaller, self-contained millefiori assembly, adding a layer of complexity and fine craftsmanship. The base of the paperweight appears to be a solid color, possibly red or dark amber, bleeding into the patterned design. The surface of the glass is glossy and reflects light, indicating a smooth, polished finish. No visible chips, cracks, or significant abrasions are immediately apparent from the provided image, suggesting good to excellent condition. The manufacturing process involves fusing multiple glass rods (canes) together and then slicing them to reveal the internal patterns, characteristic of traditional millefiori techniques often associated with Venetian glassworks from the 19th and 20th centuries. The quality of the cane work and the precision of the arrangement are indicators of skilled craftsmanship. The item exhibits a classic art glass aesthetic, likely dating from the mid-20th century or later.