Introduction
As an antique dealer, one of my staples is paperweights. These fascinating items are not only valuable but also incredibly beautiful, ensuring a constant market demand. Their combination of history, artistry, and variety makes them a perfect collectible.
Clichy
Murano
Perthshire
The History of Paperweights
While we often associate the origins of glassmaking with the Roman Empire, the small glass objects they created, which share traits with modern paperweights, were not used to hold down paper. The concept of the paperweight as we know it began in the 19th century. Early examples include “dump” paperweights in England, formed from leftover glass. The first true paperweights are credited to French makers like Clichy and Baccarat. Today, there are thousands of producers creating paperweights in an array of beautiful designs, reflecting a rich history of glass artistry.
Understanding Paperweight Values
The value of paperweights starts from as little as £10 for Chinese examples. While they are produced from far inferior quality compared to those by Clichy, Perthshire, etc., they are still beautiful and mean there is a weight for every pocket.
Some of the weights you are likely to find at car boot sales vary from Old English Millefiori, Glass Dumps with Sulphide Designs, Scottish weights from Perthshire and Caithness or John Deacons, to Clichy or Baccarat. These are just some of the names of paperweight producers I have bought at car boot sales. I once bought a beautiful Clichy for £1 and sold it for almost £500.
I have an article on my website on how to identify Chinese paperweights. Click Here to go to that article.
Damage and Restoration
In the world of antiques, it is common to accept that if you are going to buy damaged items, proceed with care. This applies to paperweights as well. Bruises can be polished out, scratches removed, or weights can even be re-cut. However, restoration can be quite expensive and will affect the final value. If you are going to attempt to restore a weight yourself, make sure to start on modern Chinese weights or seek a professional.
Best Practices for Storing Paperweights
Protective Wrapping: Wrap each paperweight individually in soft tissue paper and bubble wrap to prevent micro-bruising and scratches during storage.
Use Strong Containers: Store wrapped paperweights in sturdy containers with ample padding like packing peanuts or foam to keep them secure and prevent shifting.
Clear Labeling and Cataloging: Label each paperweight and its storage box, and record this information on a spreadsheet. This system ensures you can easily locate a specific paperweight without having to unwrap and handle multiple items. Make sure to label the boxes as “fragile” and indicate “this side up” to ensure they are handled with care during any movement.
Avoid High and Low Temperatures: Store paperweights in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, radiators, or any source of extreme temperature fluctuations that can cause the glass to crack or explode.
Flat, Secure Surfaces: Ensure paperweights are stored on flat, stable surfaces or in display cases and stands. Avoid standing them on their sides as they could be easily knocked over and damaged.
Tips for Displaying Paperweights
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Do not display paperweights in windows or areas with direct sunlight to prevent magnification effects that could start fires and to avoid temperature stress on the glass.
Stable Display Stands: Use secure display stands or cases that provide stability and protect from accidental knocks, especially if you have pets or small children.
Adequate Spacing: Arrange paperweights with enough space between them to prevent collisions and provide visual appeal.
Indirect Lighting: Use indirect lighting to highlight the beauty of your paperweights without exposing them to excessive heat which can cause damage over time.
Cleaning Paperweights
Use a Plastic Bowl: Make sure to use a plastic bowl and place your weights in one at a time. Do not wash your paperweights in a porcelain sink or with multiple items in the bowl as they will get slippery.
Use Mild Soap and Water: Clean your paperweights with a soft cloth and mild soap, ensuring no harsh chemicals are used.
Dusting with Soft Brushes: Use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove dust from intricate designs without causing scratches.
Avoid Bare Hands: Wear cotton gloves to handle paperweights to prevent oil and fingerprints from tarnishing the surface.
How to Photograph Paperweights
To photograph your paperweights effectively and showcase their beauty to demand the best price, use a light box with a light source positioned underneath the weight. This light should pass through a diffused surface, such as opaque plastic or thin card, to allow some light through without creating harsh shadows. Take the image from above the paperweight to capture the intricate details and designs, especially in millefiori patterns. This setup will truly highlight the beauty and craftsmanship of your paperweights. If you don’t have a light box, place a base over the top of a lampshade and take a picture directly using a lamp as the light source. You won’t believe the quality of the image you can capture.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure your paperweight collection is well-maintained, beautifully displayed, and effectively showcased, preserving both its aesthetic and monetary value.
