Hand-Blown Spider Motif Glass Paperweight

This item is a spherical, hand-blown glass paperweight featuring a complex internal motif resembling a spider. The central structure consists of a teardrop-shaped glass bulb encased in a larger clear glass sphere. Radiating from this central node are multiple thin, dark-colored glass filaments that arch downward, mimicking the appearance of spindly spider legs. The glass contains numerous internal air bubbles, or 'seeds,' which are characteristic of specific artisanal glassmaking techniques, possibly indicating a mid-20th-century origin. The piece is crafted from heavy, solid translucent glass and sits on a slightly flattened base to prevent rolling. The dark filaments appear to be a deep charcoal or dark violet glass when viewed under direct light. The condition appears fair to good; while the internal structures remain intact, there are visible surface scratches and 'flea bites' consistent with age and use on a desk surface. The construction suggests a controlled bubble and trailing technique often used by European or American art glass studios. There are no immediately visible maker's marks in the provided image, but the quality of the arched glass work suggests it was produced by a skilled glassblower. It measures approximately 3 to 4 inches in diameter and reflects light through its spherical lens, creating a dramatic shadow effect.