Allan's Paperweights

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Chinese Paperweights for Sale


This group of paperweights is a representative sample of the Chinese Paperweights made in the late 1920s and throughout the 1930s as an attempt to duplicate 19th Century antique weights made in the United States and France.  Because they are almost 100 years old, they are very collectible.  Every collector should own a few of these as study pieces.  I have also included some other Chinese paperweights that are newer or uniquely Chinese.

The history of the early Chinese paperweights is mostly anecdotal as no written records have been discovered.  The story is that an American dealer sent examples of paperweights made by the New England Glass Company (NEGC), Boston & Sandwich Glass Company (B&S), Millville makers, and French factories to a Chinese factory and requested copies be made.  The results are interesting and sometimes confused with the originals by inexperienced collectors.  The earliest pictures of these paperweights appeared in the book American Glass Paperweights by Francis Edgar Smith published in 1939.  Smith was aware that at least one of the paperweights shown in his book was Chinese.  Since Smith was not an expert collector, this indicates that there was some general knowledge that these were Chinese prior to 1939.

In the United States, the Tariff Act of 1930 required that every imported item must be conspicuously and indelibly marked in English with its country of origin.  As a result, many of these Chinese paperweights are scratch signed on the bottom "CHINA".  Many are also not signed, suggesting that either they were imported prior to 1930 or the importer ignored the requirement.  Most likely the earliest Chinese paperweights were made prior to 1930.

The Chinese makers often combined design features found in paperweights from different makers.  For example they copied the latticinio grounds used by New England Glass Company and used them with copies of Baccarat Pansy weights.  The original Baccarat pansy paperweights never had a latticinio ground.  They copied the pedestal rose from Millville and then used the pedestal bottom with other weights.  It is fun to collect all the variations.

Most have a light weight glass mixture that is high in soda and has a greenish tinge. The glass also has a soft almost oily feel. Frequently they have bubbles or debris in the glass.  And because of their age, many of these have minor scratches or other surface defects.

For more information on Chinese paperweights, there is a great chapter on Chinese paperweights in the book World Paperweights: Millefiori and Lampwork by Robert Hall.  The book includes a price guide.  For this and other great references on paperweights, check out my list of paperweight books for sale.

If you are interested in purchasing any of these paperweights, e-mail Allan Port at: aport@paperweights.com
 
 
5920 Modern Chinese Pink Rose Paperweight.  circa 2000.  This is a modern Chinese pink rose paperweight with 16 pink colored petals and three green leaves.  The petals are arranged in four rings in an approximate 4+4+4+4 pattern.  The base is polished flat and is almost circular.  A great example of a modern Chinese lampwork rose.  

Unlike the 1930s copies of Millville crimp roses, this example thin petals and appears to be a lampwork assembly.  Lampwork flowers are assembled at a hot torch (lamp) before being encased in glass.  Crimp roses are made by a more difficult process that creates the rose in a single step using a metal crimp.

Chinese Paperweights were made in the late 1920s and throughout the 1930s as an attempt to duplicate 19th Century antique weights made in the United States and France.  Because they are almost 100 years old, they are very collectible and every collector should own a few of these as study pieces.  The history of the early Chinese paperweights is mostly anecdotal as no written records have been discovered.  The story is that an American dealer sent examples of paperweights made by the New England Glass Company (NEGC), Boston & Sandwich Glass Company (B&S), Millville makers, and French factories to a Chinese factory and requested copies be made.  The results are interesting and sometimes confused with the originals by inexperienced collectors.  The earliest pictures of these paperweights appeared in the book American Glass Paperweights by Francis Edgar Smith published in 1939.  Smith was aware that at least one of the paperweights shown in his book was Chinese.   Since Smith was not an expert collector, this indicates that there was some general knowledge that these were Chinese prior to 1939.  Chinese paperweights continued to be made throughout the 20th century and now into the 21st century with greatly improved quality.

Size:  2 11/16” diameter by just over 2 1/2" high.  The base is polished flat.
Signature: Unsigned, but I guarantee that this was made in China circa 2000. 
Condition:  Excellent condition with no cracks, chips or scratches found on inspection.  There are some bubbles in the glass.

For extra pictures, click on the picture at the right and the following links:

Large picture
Closeup
Side view
Profile
Base

$29 postage paid in the US.

Click on the picture to see a larger image.

Click on the picture to see a larger image
Modern Chinese Pink Rose Paperweight
1868 Rare 1930s Chinese Butterfly Paperweight.  circa 1930.  This paperweight features a red winged lampwork butterfly flying with wings extended over millefiori frit ground.  The wings are covered with multi-colored dots.  The butterfly body is light blue with two well defined antennae.  The frit ground consists of millefiori cane slices.  This paperweight is signed on the base with a scratch signature "CHINA".  A great example.

Note
:  Please ignore the white areas, they are glare from the lights.

Chinese Paperweights were made in the late 1920s and throughout the 1930s as an attempt to duplicate 19th Century antique weights made in the United States and France.  Because they are almost 100 years old, they are very collectible and every collector should own a few of these as study pieces.  The history of the early Chinese paperweights is mostly anecdotal as no written records have been discovered.  The story is that an American dealer sent examples of paperweights made by the New England Glass Company (NEGC), Boston &Sandwich Glass Company (B&S), Millville makers, and French factories to a Chinese factory and requested copies be made.  The results are interesting and sometimes confused with the originals by inexperienced collectors.  The earliest pictures of these paperweights appeared in the book American Glass Paperweights by Francis Edgar Smith published in 1939.  Smith was aware that at least one of the paperweights shown in his book was Chinese.  Since Smith was not an expert collector, this indicates that there was some general knowledge that these were Chinese prior to 1939.

In the United States, the Tariff Act of 1930 required that every imported item must be conspicuously and indelibly marked in English with its country of origin.  As a result, many of these Chinese paperweights are scratch signed on the bottom "CHINA".  Many are also not signed, suggesting that either they were imported prior to 1930 or the importer ignored the requirement.  Most likely the earliest Chinese paperweights were made prior to 1930.

The Chinese makers often combined design features found in paperweights from different makers.  For example they copied the latticinio grounds used by New England Glass Company and used them with copies of Baccarat Pansy weights.  The original Baccarat pansy paperweights never had a latticinio ground.  They copied the pedestal rose from Millville and then used the pedestal bottom with other weights. It is fun to collect all the variations. 

In general, Chinese paperweights from the 1930s have a light weight glass mixture that is high in soda and has a greenish tinge. The glass also has a soft almost oily feel. Frequently they have bubbles or debris in the glass.  And because of their age, many of these have minor scratches or other surface defects.  Chinese paperweights made in the 1970s and later usually have better quality glass and are free of debris. 

Medium Size:  Just over 2 1/2" diameter by just under 1 3/4"  high.  The bottom is ground flat.
Signature:  This paperweight is signed on the base with a scratch signature "CHINA".
Condition:  Good condition with no cracks or big chips.  There are surface nicks and scratches on the body and age appropriate wear on the base.  As is typical of Chinese paperweights from this period, the glass has many tiny bubbles and one larger bubble over one wing.

For extra pictures, click on the picture at the right and the following links:

Large picture
Scratched signed "CHINA" signature
Profile
Side view
Closeup
Base
$49 postage paid in the US.

Click on the picture to see a larger image.

Click on the picture to see a larger image
Rare 1930s Chinese Butterfly Paperweight
1585 Very Rare Chinese Quatrefoil Faceted Blue Flower with Bud on Double Latticinio Paperweight - copy of NEGC.  circa 1930.  This is an almost antique Chinese copy of a New England Glass Company (NEGC) Blue Flower with Bud Paperweight made circa 1860.  It has the fancy NEGC quatrefoil faceting and double latticinio ground.  There is a blue flower with five petals and a millefiori center and also a large blue bud and two large green leaves and a stem.  The design is set on a great double latticinio ground.  The paperweight is faceted with a four part top facet and eight side facets (four large and four smaller).  This is a fantastic addition to any collection of antique paperweights.  In some ways, the execution of this example is better than the original NEGC, since NEGC examples often have large bubbles or other defects in the latticinio.

Chinese Paperweights were made in the late 1920s and throughout the 1930s as an attempt to duplicate 19th Century antique weights made in the United States and France.  Because they are almost 100 years old, they are very collectible and every collector should own a few of these as study pieces.  The history of the early Chinese paperweights is mostly anecdotal as no written records have been discovered.  The story is that an American dealer sent examples of paperweights made by the New England Glass Company (NEGC), Boston & Sandwich Glass Company (B&S), Millville makers, and French factories to a Chinese factory and requested copies be made.  The results are interesting and sometimes confused with the originals by inexperienced collectors.  The earliest pictures of these paperweights appeared in the book American Glass Paperweights by Francis Edgar Smith published in 1939.  Smith was aware that at least one of the paperweights shown in his book was Chinese.  Since Smith was not an expert collector, this indicates that there was some general knowledge that these were Chinese prior to 1939.  In the United States, the Tariff Act of 1930 required that every imported item must be conspicuously and indelibly marked in English with its country of origin.  As a result, many of these Chinese paperweights are scratch signed on the bottom "CHINA".  Many are also not signed, suggesting that either they were imported prior to 1930 or the importer ignored the requirement.  Most likely the earliest Chinese paperweights were made prior to 1930.

The Chinese makers often combined design features found in paperweights from different makers.  For example they copied the latticinio grounds used by New England Glass Company and used them with copies of Baccarat Pansy weights.  The original Baccarat pansy paperweights never had a latticinio ground.  They copied the pedestal rose from Millville and then used the pedestal bottom with other weights. It is fun to collect all the variations.  In general, Chinese paperweights from this period have a light weight glass mixture that is high in soda and has a greenish tinge.  The glass also has a soft almost oily feel.  Frequently they have bubbles or debris in the glass.  And because of their age, many of these have minor scratches or other surface defects.

Large Size:   Just under 2 5/8" diameter by 1 7/82" high. The bottom is ground concave. 
Signature:   Unsigned but I guarantee that this is from China and dates from about 1930. 
Condition:  Very good condition.  There are some minor surface scratches and pinpricks and also one tiny nick on where two parts of the top facets come together.  There is noticeable debris or dirt in the glass as shown in the pictures.  As with all Chinese paperweights from this period, this paperweight has a light weight glass mixture that is high in soda and has a greenish tinge. The glass has a soft almost oily feel. 

For extra pictures, click on the picture at the right and the following links: 

Large picture
Closeup
Profile
Side view
Base
Back view - shows double latticinio
Another view
$295 postage paid in the US. 

Click on the picture to see a larger image.

Click on the picture to see a larger image
Very Rare Chinese Quatrefoil Faceted Blue Flower with Bud on Double Latticinio Paperweight - copy of NEGC
1700 Magnum Chinese Copy of the Famous Clichy Millefiori Basket - Heart Shaped.  Circa 2000.  This very large millefiori paperweight has a basket form with a heart shaped top.  The top is bulging with flowers arranged in a complex millefiori garland pattern on a moss ground.  The top is edged with a reddish orange and white torsade lip.  The sides of the basket are formed using green and white staves and the base also has a reddish orange and white torsade lip.  It was originally marketed on the QVC television network and was sold as a "lamp" with a lighted stand.  This copy does not have the stand.  A fun addition to any collection of glass paperweights. 

Note:  While the resemblance to the antique Clichy basket paperweight is unmistakable,  this paperweight is considerably larger than the original which was only 4 1/4" in diameter.  The original antique was oval shaped rather than heart shaped.  The original Clichy antique held the record for the most expensive paperweight ever sold.  It sold for $258,500 to a private collector at a Sotheby's auction in New York on June 26, 1990.  Unfortunately it was dropped and damaged beyond repair.  You can see the cover of the Sotheby's auction with a picture of the Clichy basket at this link:  Sotheby's Catalog

Very large size:  7 1/2" wide by 7" deep by 3 7/8" high.  The base is ground flat.  It weighs 102 ounces (six pounds six ounces) and will be approximately eight pounds when boxed for mailing.    
Signature:   Unsigned but I guarantee that this paperweight is from China and dates from about 2000.  It was originally marketed on the QVC television network and was sold as a "lamp" with a lighted stand.  There is no stand with this copy.
Condition:  Excellent condition.  I found no chips, cracks, or scratches on inspection.  It does have manufacturing flaws in the basket staves and the torsade forming the lip of the top and base (see side view).  There are a few small bubbles. 

For extra pictures, click on the picture at the right and the following links: 

Large picture
Top view
Closeup
Profile
Side view (note flaws in torsade and staves)
Base
Another side view
Upside down
Another view
$275 plus postage.           For this item, because of the weight (8 pounds packaged), the buyer will pay the postage.  US Sales only, no international shipping.

Click on the picture to see a larger image.

Click on the picture to see a larger image
Magnum Chinese Copy of the Famous Clichy Millefiori Basket Paperweight - Heart Shaped
842 Magnum 1930s Chinese Scrambled Millefiori Paperweight.  circa 1930.  This is an extra large example of a 1930s scrambled millefiori paperweight from China filled with a nice assortment of millefiori canes and twist canes.  This style was intended to be a copy of a French scramble or end of day weight from 1845-1860 (probably St. Louis or Clichy), but it will not fool today's collectors.  This example is scratch signed "CHINA" on the base.  As with most Chinese paperweights of this period, this paperweight has a light weight glass mixture that is high in soda and has a greenish tinge.  The glass has a soft oily feel and there are many light scratches and scuff marks.  There are also striations (sugaring) in the glass.  An unusually large example worthy of any collection of Chinese paperweights.

Chinese Paperweights were made in the late 1920s and throughout the 1930s as an attempt to duplicate 19th Century antique weights made in the United States and France.  Because they are almost 100 years old, they are very collectible and every collector should own a few of these as study pieces.  The history of the early Chinese paperweights is mostly anecdotal as no written records have been discovered.  The story is that an American dealer sent examples of paperweights made by the New England Glass Company (NEGC), Boston & Sandwich Glass Company (B&S), Millville makers, and French factories to a Chinese factory and requested copies be made.  The results are interesting and sometimes confused with the originals by inexperienced collectors.  The earliest pictures of these paperweights appeared in the book American Glass Paperweights by Francis Edgar Smith published in 1939.  Smith was aware that at least one of the paperweights shown in his book was Chinese.  Since Smith was not an expert collector, this indicates that there was some general knowledge that these were Chinese prior to 1939.

In the United States, the Tariff Act of 1930 required that every imported item must be conspicuously and indelibly marked in English with its country of origin.  As a result, many of these Chinese paperweights are scratch signed on the bottom "CHINA".  Many are also not signed, suggesting that either they were imported prior to 1930 or the importer ignored the requirement.  Most likely the earliest Chinese paperweights were made prior to 1930.

The Chinese makers often combined design features found in paperweights from different makers.  For example they copied the latticinio grounds used by New England Glass Company and used them with copies of Baccarat Pansy weights.  The original Baccarat pansy paperweights never had a latticinio ground.  They copied the pedestal rose from Millville and then used the pedestal bottom with other weights. It is fun to collect all the variations. 

In general, Chinese paperweights from the 1930s have a light weight glass mixture that is high in soda and has a greenish tinge.  The glass also has a soft almost oily feel.  Frequently they have bubbles or debris in the glass.  And because of their age, many of these have minor scratches or other surface defects.  Chinese paperweights made in the 1970s and later usually have better quality glass and are free of debris. 

Very large size:   Just under 3 7/16” diameter by 2 7/16"  high.  The base is rough, fire finished, and ground concave in the center.  A remnant of the pontil scar remains in the center.
Signature:  Scratch signed "CHINA" on the base.  
Condition:  Good condition.  It has many surface scratches and scuffs.  No cracks or chips.  Striations in the glass.  The quality of the glass is poor with some debris - as is typical of early Chinese paperweights. The glass has a greenish tinge and it has a soft oily feel.  

For extra pictures, click on the picture at the right and the following links: 

Large picture
Signature
Closeup
Profile
Base
Side view
Another view
$125 postage paid in the US.

Click on the picture to see a larger image.

Click on the picture to see a larger image
Magnum 1930s Chinese Scrambled Millefiori Paperweight
4078 Old Chinese Two Color Fantasy Flower Paperweight with Leaves and Bud - Copy of Baccarat Antique.  circa 1930.   This is a copy of a French Baccarat 12 petal fantasy flower paperweight with bud made in the classic period from 1845-1860.  The two color flower has a complex millefiori center cane, five leaves, two color bud, and a stem.  The ground is clear.  The style dates from the 1920s or 1930s and is almost an antique. 

Chinese Paperweights were made in the late 1920s and throughout the 1930s as an attempt to duplicate 19th Century antique weights made in the United States and France.  Because they are almost 100 years old, they are very collectible and every collector should own a few of these as study pieces.  The history of the early Chinese paperweights is mostly anecdotal as no written records have been discovered.  The story is that an American dealer sent examples of paperweights made by the New England Glass Company (NEGC), Boston & Sandwich Glass Company (B&S), Millville makers, and French factories to a Chinese factory and requested copies be made.  The results are interesting and sometimes confused with the originals by inexperienced collectors.  The earliest pictures of these paperweights appeared in the book American Glass Paperweights by Francis Edgar Smith published in 1939.  Smith was aware that at least one of the paperweights shown in his book was Chinese.  Since Smith was not an expert collector, this indicates that there was some general knowledge that these were Chinese prior to 1939.

In the United States, the Tariff Act of 1930 required that every imported item must be conspicuously and indelibly marked in English with its country of origin.  As a result, many of these Chinese paperweights are scratch signed on the bottom "CHINA".  Many are also not signed, suggesting that either they were imported prior to 1930 or the importer ignored the requirement.  Most likely the earliest Chinese paperweights were made prior to 1930.

The Chinese makers often combined design features found in paperweights from different makers.  For example they copied the latticinio grounds used by New England Glass Company and used them with copies of Baccarat Pansy weights.  The original Baccarat pansy paperweights never had a latticinio ground.  They copied the pedestal rose from Millville and then used the pedestal bottom with other weights.  It is fun to collect all the variations.

In general, Chinese paperweights from this period have a light weight glass mixture that is high in soda and has a greenish tinge. The glass also has a soft almost oily feel. Frequently they have bubbles or debris in the glass.  And because of their age, many of these have minor scratches or other surface defects.

Size:  Just under 2 3/4" diameter by 1/4" high.  The base is ground concave in the center. 
Signature:      Unsigned but I guarantee that this is from China and dates from about 1930. 
Condition:  Very good condition.  There are some minor scratches on the body.  There is a 1/8" chip and a similar sized tool mark on the base.  As is typical of paperweights of this type, the glass has some debris and tiny bubbles.  As with Chinese paperweights from this period, this paperweight has a slight greenish tinge. 

For extra pictures, click on the picture at the right and the following links:
 

$45 postage paid in the US.

Click on the picture to see a larger image.

Click on the picture to see a larger image
Old Chinese Two Color Fantasy Flower Paperweight with Leaves and Bud - Copy of Baccarat Antique
1002
Signed 1930s Chinese Closepack Millefiori Paperweight. c.1930. This is a copy of a French antique paperweight from 1845-1860.  Most likely it was based on a Clichy closepack design.  Clear ground.  A nice example with great color.

Please ignore the white areas, they are glare from the lights. 

Large Size:  2 7/8” diameter by just under 1 1/2"  high. 
Signature: Scratch signed "CHINA" on the bottom. 
Condition:  Very good condition with no cracks or chips.  Some very minor surface scratches.  As is typical of Chinese paperweights from this period, the glass has a slightly green tint.

For extra pictures, click on the picture at the right and the following links:

Large picture of the paperweight
Profile view
Bottom view
$55 postage paid in the US. 

Click on the picture to see a larger image.

Click on the picture to see a larger image
2012 Chinese Miniature Orange Butterfly on Green Ground Paperweight.  circa 1940 - 1960.  This paperweight features an orange and yellow winged lampwork butterfly flying with wings extended over a green frit ground.  The butterfly body is light green with two well defined antennae.  The green ground gives the glass a greenish tinge, but it is mostly clear glass.  This paperweight is unsigned.

Note
:  Please ignore the white areas, they are glare from the lights.

Chinese Paperweights were made in the late 1920s and throughout the 1930s as an attempt to duplicate 19th Century antique weights made in the United States and France.  Because they are almost 100 years old, they are very collectible and every collector should own a few of these as study pieces.  The history of the early Chinese paperweights is mostly anecdotal as no written records have been discovered.  The story is that an American dealer sent examples of paperweights made by the New England Glass Company (NEGC), Boston &Sandwich Glass Company (B&S), Millville makers, and French factories to a Chinese factory and requested copies be made.  The results are interesting and sometimes confused with the originals by inexperienced collectors.  The earliest pictures of these paperweights appeared in the book American Glass Paperweights by Francis Edgar Smith published in 1939.  Smith was aware that at least one of the paperweights shown in his book was Chinese.  Since Smith was not an expert collector, this indicates that there was some general knowledge that these were Chinese prior to 1939.

In the United States, the Tariff Act of 1930 required that every imported item must be conspicuously and indelibly marked in English with its country of origin.  As a result, many of these Chinese paperweights are scratch signed on the bottom "CHINA".  Many are also not signed, suggesting that either they were imported prior to 1930 or the importer ignored the requirement.  Most likely the earliest Chinese paperweights were made prior to 1930.

The Chinese makers often combined design features found in paperweights from different makers.  For example they copied the latticinio grounds used by New England Glass Company and used them with copies of Baccarat Pansy weights.  The original Baccarat pansy paperweights never had a latticinio ground.  They copied the pedestal rose from Millville and then used the pedestal bottom with other weights. It is fun to collect all the variations. 

In general, Chinese paperweights from the 1930s have a light weight glass mixture that is high in soda and has a greenish tinge. The glass also has a soft almost oily feel. Frequently they have bubbles or debris in the glass.  And because of their age, many of these have minor scratches or other surface defects.  Chinese paperweights made in the 1970s and later usually have better quality glass and are free of debris. 

Miniature size:  2" diameter by 1 5/8"  high.  The bottom is flat with remnants of the pontil scar.
Signature:  This paperweight is unsigned, but I guarantee it is from China and dates from the 1940 thru 1960.
Condition:  Good condition with no cracks or chips.  There are some slight surface scratches.  As is typical of Chinese paperweights from this period, the glass has some debris and bubbles.

For extra pictures, click on the picture at the right and the following links:

Large picture
Profile
Another view
Closeup
Base
$39 postage paid in the US.

Click on the picture to see a larger image.

Click on the picture to see a larger image
Chinese Miniature Orange Butterfly on Green Ground Paperweight
1788 Rare Chinese Copy of a NEGC Faceted Millefiori Nosegay Paperweight.  circa 1930.  This is an almost antique Chinese copy of a New England Glass Company (NEGC) Posy Paperweight made circa 1860.  It has the fancy NEGC quatrefoil faceting and setup.  The millefiori nosegay consists of three red, blue, and yellow complex millefiori canes with four green leaves and a stem.  All this surrounded by two garlands of complex millefiori, one made up of alternating pink and blue millefiori canes, the other made up of identical pink and white flowers with green centers.  This great setup is on top of a latticinio swirl ground.  There are twelve side facets (four large and eight smaller) plus the four part top facet with a notch between each.  This is a fantastic addition to any collection of antique paperweights.  In some ways, the execution of this example is better than the original NEGC, since NEGC examples usual have tipped or cracked canes and the posy is often smudged.

Chinese Paperweights were made in the late 1920s and throughout the 1930s as an attempt to duplicate 19th Century antique weights made in the United States and France.  Because they are almost 100 years old, they are very collectible and every collector should own a few of these as study pieces.  The history of the early Chinese paperweights is mostly anecdotal as no written records have been discovered.  The story is that an American dealer sent examples of paperweights made by the New England Glass Company (NEGC), Boston & Sandwich Glass Company (B&S), Millville makers, and French factories to a Chinese factory and requested copies be made.  The results are interesting and sometimes confused with the originals by inexperienced collectors.  The earliest pictures of these paperweights appeared in the book American Glass Paperweights by Francis Edgar Smith published in 1939.  Smith was aware that at least one of the paperweights shown in his book was Chinese.  Since Smith was not an expert collector, this indicates that there was some general knowledge that these were Chinese prior to 1939.

Large Size:   2 7/8" diameter by 1 15/16" high. The bottom is ground concave. 
Signature:   Unsigned but I guarantee that this is from China and dates from about 1930. 
Condition:  Excellent condition.  There is considerable wear on the base but no damage on the body of the paperweight.  There is some debris or dirt in the glass.  As with all Chinese paperweights from this period, this paperweight has a light weight glass mixture that is high in soda and has a greenish tinge. The glass has a soft feel. 

For extra pictures, click on the picture at the right and the following links: 

Large picture
Closeup
Profile
Side view
Base
$175 postage paid in the US.

Click on the picture to see a larger image.

Click on the picture to see a larger image
Rare Chinese Copy of a NEGC Faceted Millefiori Nosegay Paperweight
1447 Chinese Concentric Millefiori Paperweight. circa 1930. This is a copy of a Clichy paperweight from France made in the classic period from 1845-1860.  Clear ground. This type is not as common as the other patterned millefiori weights, nor is it as intricate.  The millefiori canes are simple canes.  Perhaps it was made later or perhaps by a different factory.

Small Size:  2 3/8” diameter by just under 1 7/8” high. 
Signature: Unsigned, but the attribution is guaranteed. 
Condition:  Good condition typical of Chinese paperweights from this period.  No cracks or chips, but it does have some scratches and surface abrasions mostly on the side of the paperweight.

For extra pictures, click on the picture at the right and the following links:

Large picture of the paperweight
Another picture
$35 postage paid in the US. 

Click on the picture to see a larger image.

Click on the picture to see a larger image
2238 Chinese Millefiori Perfume Bottle or Inkwell. c.1930.  Matching concentric millefiori pattern in the base and the stopper.  Each has four rings of millefiori around a central floral cane.  The base is footed.  I would call this bottle a scent or perfume bottle because of the long stopper that reaches almost to the bottom of the well.  A very desirable Chinese paperweight collectible.

This is a copy of a Whitefriars inkwell from about 1920.  You can see the Whitefriars version by clicking this link.  Note the similarity right down to the footed base. 

Size:  3 1/8" diameter by 5 1/2" high.  Excellent condition with only minor wear consistent with age.  As is typical of Chinese paperweights from this period, there is some debris in the glass and it has a greenish hue.

For comparable pricing, check lot 288 in Selman's Fall 2002 auction, in which a similar sized bottle brought $303 against an estimate of $275-$400.

For extra pictures, click on the picture at the right and the following links:

Large picture of the paperweight
Picture showing stopper
Millefiori pattern in stopper
$150 postage paid in the US.     Price reduced (was $195)  

Click on the picture to see a larger image.

Click on the picture to see a larger imageChinese Millefiori Perfume Bottle or Inkwell
1568 1930s Chinese Millefiori Brushholder Paperweight.  circa 1930-1940.  This is another uniquely Chinese invention.  This has also been described as a chopstick holder.  Novelty items like this started appearing in the US in the 1930s and some were sold at the 1939 World's Fair.  I call this shape the lotus flower shape.  It has a floral shape with applied petals around the outside. 

Size:  2 1/8" diameter by 1 1/3" high. 
Signature: Unsigned but I guarantee that this is an authentic 1930s Chinese paperweight. 
Condition:  Very good condition with no cracks or chips.  Some very minor surface scratches.  As is typical of Chinese paperweights from this period, the glass has a slightly green tint. 

For extra pictures, click on the picture at the right and the followinglinks: 

Large picture of the paperweight
Another view
$39 postage paid in the US. 

Click on the picture to see a larger image.

Click on the picture to see a larger image1930s Chinese Millefiori Brushholder Paperweight
1472 Unusual Miniature Chinese Mosaic Millefiori Paperweight with Rose Cane.  circa 1950-70.  Unusual Chinese millefiori with mosaic canes.  There are red and yellow star canes surrounded by leaf canes and a single rose cane.  I have no idea what the pattern is supposed to represent.  Very little is known about this style.  Other examples have a butterfly pattern and some have Chinese writing in the design.  The style is believed to be from 1950-1970. 

Chinese Paperweights were made in the late 1920s and throughout the 1930s as an attempt to duplicate 19th Century antique weights made in the United States and France.  Because they are almost 100 years old, they are very collectible and every collector should own a few of these as study pieces.  The history of the early Chinese paperweights is mostly anecdotal as no written records have been discovered.  The story is that an American dealer sent examples of paperweights made by the New England Glass Company (NEGC), Boston & Sandwich Glass Company (B&S), Millville makers, and French factories to a Chinese factory and requested copies be made.  The results are interesting and sometimes confused with the originals by inexperienced collectors.  The earliest pictures of these paperweights appeared in the book American Glass Paperweights by Francis Edgar Smith published in 1939.  Smith was aware that at least one of the paperweights shown in his book was Chinese.  Since Smith was not an expert collector, this indicates that there was some general knowledge that these were Chinese prior to 1939.

In the United States, the Tariff Act of 1930 required that every imported item must be conspicuously and indelibly marked in English with its country of origin.  As a result, many of these Chinese paperweights are scratch signed on the bottom "CHINA".  Many are also not signed, suggesting that either they were imported prior to 1930 or the importer ignored the requirement.  Most likely the earliest Chinese paperweights were made prior to 1930.

The Chinese makers often combined design features found in paperweights from different makers.  For example they copied the latticinio grounds used by New England Glass Company and used them with copies of Baccarat Pansy weights.  The original Baccarat pansy paperweights never had a latticinio ground.  They copied the pedestal rose from Millville and then used the pedestal bottom with other weights.  It is fun to collect all the variations. 

In general, Chinese paperweights from the earliest period (1930-1950) have a light weight glass mixture that is high in soda and has a greenish tinge. The glass also has a soft almost oily feel. Frequently they have bubbles or debris in the glass.  And because of their age, many of these have minor scratches or other surface defects.  This paperweight has a slightly better glass, but it is not crystal clear like modern paperweights.

Miniature Size:   1 13/16" diameter by 1 1/2" high. The bottom is ground flat.
Signature:   Unsigned but I guarantee that this is from China 1970 or earlier. 
Condition:  Good condition with no chips or cracks.  Some minor surface scratches.  The glass is poor quality and has striations and bubbles in it. 

For extra pictures, click on the picture at the right and the following links: 

Large picture
Closeup
Profile
Side view
Base
Rose cane
$39 postage paid in the US. 

Click on the picture to see a larger image.

Click on the picture to see a larger image
Unusual Chinese Mosaic Millefiori Paperweight with Rose Cane
4748 Miniature 1930s Chinese Millefiori Brushholder Paperweight - Aladdin's Lamp Shape.  c.1930-1940.  This is another uniquely Chinese invention, although one that adopted the use of millefiori found in paperweights from other countries.  This has also been described as a chopstick holder.  Novelty items like this started appearing in the US in the 1930s and some were sold at the 1939 World's Fair. I call this shape the Aladdin's lamp shape.  A fun collectible.

Chinese Paperweights were made in the late 1920s and throughout the 1930s as an attempt to duplicate 19th Century antique weights made in the United States and France.  Because they are almost 100 years old, they are very collectible and every collector should own a few of these as study pieces.  The history of the early Chinese paperweights is mostly anecdotal as no written records have been discovered.  The story is that an American dealer sent examples of paperweights made by the New England Glass Company (NEGC), Boston &Sandwich Glass Company (B&S), Millville makers, and French factories to a Chinese factory and requested copies be made.  The results are interesting and sometimes confused with the originals by inexperienced collectors.  The earliest pictures of these paperweights appeared in the book American Glass Paperweights by Francis Edgar Smith published in 1939.  Smith was aware that at least one of the paperweights shown in his book was Chinese.  Since Smith was not an expert collector, this indicates that there was some general knowledge that these were Chinese prior to 1939.

In the United States, the Tariff Act of 1930 required that every imported item must be conspicuously and indelibly marked in English with its country of origin.  As a result, many of these Chinese paperweights are scratch signed on the bottom "CHINA".  Many are also not signed, suggesting that either they were imported prior to 1930 or the importer ignored the requirement.  Most likely the earliest Chinese paperweights were made prior to 1930.

The Chinese makers often combined design features found in paperweights from different makers.  For example they copied the latticinio grounds used by New England Glass Company and used them with copies of Baccarat Pansy weights.  The original Baccarat pansy paperweights never had a latticinio ground.  They copied the pedestal rose from Millville and then used the pedestal bottom with other weights. It is fun to collect all the variations. 

In general, Chinese paperweights from this period have a light weight glass mixture that is high in soda and has a greenish tinge. The glass also has a soft almost oily feel. Frequently they have bubbles or debris in the glass.  And because of their age, many of these have minor scratches or other surface defects.

Size:  2 1/2” long by 1 1/2" tall by 1 7/16" deep.  The base is ground flat.
Signature:  Unsigned, but I guarantee that this is an authentic 1930s Chinese paperweight. 
Condition:  Very good condition with no cracks or chips.  Some very minor surface scratches.  There are striations in the glass.  As is typical of Chinese paperweights from this period, the glass has a slightly green tint and has some tiny bubbles and debris in it.

For extra pictures, click on the picture at the right and the following links: 

Large picture
Profile
Other side
Base
SOLD.                                                       Added 8/20/2021

For more paperweights from China, see my Chinese Paperweights Web Page.

Click on the picture to see a larger image.

Click on the picture to see a larger image
Miniature 1930s Chinese Millefiori Brushholder Paperweight - Aladdin's Lamp Shape
1693 Rare Chinese Scramble Paperweight with "MADE IN CHINA" Signature Canes.  circa 1930.  An entertaining addition from China.  Since this style was intended to be a copy of a French scramble or end of day weight from 1845-1860 (probably St. Louis or Clichy), it leaves you wondering why they chose to add the "MADE IN CHINA" canes at the bottom.  Perhaps it was a response to the US customs requirement that goods be marked with the country of origin in English starting about 1930.  Some importers complied by scratch signing the word CHINA on the bottom.  In any event, this is a rare and welcome addition to any collection of Chinese paperweights.  As with most Chinese paperweights, this paperweight has a light weight glass mixture that is high in soda and has a greenish tinge. The glass has a soft oily feel and there are some light scratches.  This example is especially colorful with a nice variety of twist cans and millefiori slices.

Special thanks to another collector who pointed out that the words are actually word canes rather than painted plaques.  The lettering goes all the way through the white background from top to bottom.  You can see the letters in reverse from the bottom.  This is in contrast to a painted plaque where the letters would be visible on only the top surface.

Chinese Paperweights were made in the late 1920s and throughout the 1930s as an attempt to duplicate 19th Century antique weights made in the United States and France.  Because they are almost 100 years old, they are very collectible and every collector should own a few of these as study pieces.  The history of the early Chinese paperweights is mostly anecdotal as no written records have been discovered.  The story is that an American dealer sent examples of paperweights made by the New England Glass Company (NEGC), Boston & Sandwich Glass Company (B&S), Millville makers, and French factories to a Chinese factory and requested copies be made.  The results are interesting and sometimes confused with the originals by inexperienced collectors.  The earliest pictures of these paperweights appeared in the book American Glass Paperweights by Francis Edgar Smith published in 1939.  Smith was aware that at least one of the paperweights shown in his book was Chinese.  Since Smith was not an expert collector, this indicates that there was some general knowledge that these were Chinese prior to 1939.

In the United States, the Tariff Act of 1930 required that every imported item must be conspicuously and indelibly marked in English with its country of origin.  As a result, many of these Chinese paperweights are scratch signed on the bottom "CHINA".  Many are also not signed, suggesting that either they were imported prior to 1930 or the importer ignored the requirement.  Most likely the earliest Chinese paperweights were made prior to 1930.

The Chinese makers often combined design features found in paperweights from different makers.  For example they copied the latticinio grounds used by New England Glass Company and used them with copies of Baccarat Pansy weights.  The original Baccarat pansy paperweights never had a latticinio ground.  They copied the pedestal rose from Millville and then used the pedestal bottom with other weights. It is fun to collect all the variations. 

In general, Chinese paperweights from the 1930s have a light weight glass mixture that is high in soda and has a greenish tinge. The glass also has a soft almost oily feel. Frequently they have bubbles or debris in the glass.  And because of their age, many of these have minor scratches or other surface defects.  Chinese paperweights made in the 1970s and later usually have better quality glass and are free of debris. 

Small Size:   Just over 2 1/16” diameter by just over 1 1/16"  high.  The base is fire finished flat. 
Signature:  Signed "MADE IN CHINA" on three white signature canes in the design. 
Condition:  Very good condition for Chinese paperweights from this period.  Some light scratches, but no chips or cracks found on inspection.  The glass has a soft oily feel.  There are some bubbles in the glass.

For extra pictures, click on the picture at the right and the following links: 

Large picture
Signature canes
Closeup
Profile
Base
Side view
Another side view
View of reverse side
$125 postage paid in the US.

Click on the picture to see a larger image.

Click on the picture to see a larger image
Rare Chinese Scramble Paperweight with "MADE IN CHINA" Signature Canes
4457 Chinese Aquarium Paperweight with Two Fish and Foliage.  circa 1930.  This is a Chinese invention.  It is intended to be placed  in an aquarium along with the rocks and plants.  The paperweight has two blue and red fish plus an orange plant.  It is roughly cube shaped with rounded edges.  Novelty items like this started appearing in the US in the 1930s and some were sold at the 1939 World's Fair.  This is a fun collectible.

Chinese Paperweights were made in the late 1920s and throughout the 1930s as an attempt to duplicate 19th Century antique weights made in the United States and France.  Because they are almost 100 years old, they are very collectible and every collector should own a few of these as study pieces.  The history of the early Chinese paperweights is mostly anecdotal as no written records have been discovered.  The story is that an American dealer sent examples of paperweights made by the New England Glass Company (NEGC), Boston & Sandwich Glass Company (B&S), Millville makers, and French factories to a Chinese factory and requested copies be made.  The results are interesting and sometimes confused with the originals by inexperienced collectors.  The earliest pictures of these paperweights appeared in the book American Glass Paperweights by Francis Edgar Smith published in 1939.  Smith was aware that at least one of the paperweights shown in his book was Chinese.   Since Smith was not an expert collector, this indicates that there was some general knowledge that these were Chinese prior to 1939.  Chinese paperweights continued to be made throughout the 20th century and now into the 21st century with greatly improved quality.

In the United States, the Tariff Act of 1930 required that every imported item must be conspicuously and indelibly marked in English with its country of origin.  As a result, many of these Chinese paperweights are scratch signed on the bottom "CHINA".  Many are also not signed, suggesting that either they were imported prior to 1930 or the importer ignored the requirement.  Most likely the earliest Chinese paperweights were made prior to 1930.  In general, Chinese paperweights from the 1930s have a light weight glass mixture that is high in soda and has a greenish tinge. The glass also has a soft almost oily feel.  Frequently they have bubbles or debris in the glass.  And because of their age, many of these have minor scratches or other surface defects.  Chinese paperweights made in the 1970s and later usually have better quality glass and are free of debris. 

Size:  1 3/8" by 1 3/8" by 1 1/2" high.  All of the edges are rounded.  The base is fire finished with the remnant of a pontil mark.
Signature: Unsigned, but I guarantee this is Chinese paperweights from approximately 1930.
Condition:  Very good condition with only a few minor scratches.  The glass has a soft oily feel.  There are bubbles and debris in the glass and it has a green tinge.

For extra pictures, click on the picture at the right and the following links: 

Large picture
Front side
Top view
Back view
Base
$45 postage paid in the US.

Click on the picture to see a larger image.

Click on the picture to see a larger image
Chinese Aquarium Paperweight with Two Fish and Foliage
2128 Rare Large Chinese White Paperweight with Squirrel Eating Grapes.  circa 1930.  This large Chinese white paperweight has a colored painting of squirrel sitting upright and eating a luscious bunch of grapes.  The painting is created on a white enamel base and then encased in glass.  The style dates from the 1930s and is almost an antique. 

This paperweight is a form of Chinese folk art although it was most likely inspired by frit weights from Southern New Jersey.  I believe the Chinese were given examples of Millville frit weights to duplicate.  Since they were already experienced in painting on ceramics, they applied their own unique interpretation to paperweights using a white enamel disk as the base and incorporating familiar themes already found in Chinese art. 

Chinese Paperweights were made in the late 1920s and throughout the 1930s as an attempt to duplicate 19th Century antique weights made in the United States and France.  Because they are almost 100 years old, they are very collectible and every collector should own a few of these as study pieces.  The history of the early Chinese paperweights is mostly anecdotal as no written records have been discovered.  The story is that an American dealer sent examples of paperweights made by the New England Glass Company (NEGC), Boston & Sandwich Glass Company (B&S), Millville makers, and French factories to a Chinese factory and requested copies be made.  The results are interesting and sometimes confused with the originals by inexperienced collectors.  The earliest pictures of these paperweights appeared in the book American Glass Paperweights by Francis Edgar Smith published in 1939.  Smith was aware that at least one of the paperweights shown in his book was Chinese.  Since Smith was not an expert collector, this indicates that there was some general knowledge that these were Chinese prior to 1939.

In the United States, the Tariff Act of 1930 required that every imported item must be conspicuously and indelibly marked in English with its country of origin.  As a result, many of these Chinese paperweights are scratch signed on the bottom "CHINA".  Many are also not signed, suggesting that either they were imported prior to 1930 or the importer ignored the requirement.  Most likely the earliest Chinese paperweights were made prior to 1930.

In general, Chinese paperweights from this period have a light weight glass mixture that is high in soda and has a greenish tinge. The glass also has a soft almost oily feel. Frequently they have bubbles or debris in the glass.  And because of their age, many of these have minor scratches or other surface defects.

Large size:   Just over 2 11/16" diameter by 1 7/8" high.  The base is finished base.   
Signature:   Unsigned but I guarantee that this paperweight is from China and dates from about 1930. 
Condition:  Very good condition.  The surface has a few indentations  and faint scratches, but is mostly smooth.  No chips or cracks.  As is often typical in this type of Chinese paperweight, the quality of the glass is low and there is debris in the glass.  The glass has a soft almost oily feel and has a slight greenish tinge.  There are some tiny bubbles in the glass. 

For extra pictures, click on the picture at the right and the following links: 

Large picture
Closeup
Profile
Side view
Base
Another picture
$195 postage paid in the US.

Click on the picture to see a larger image.

Click on the picture to see a larger image
Rare Large Chinese White Paperweight with Squirrel Eating Grapes
1398 Chinese Yellow Millefiori  Peacock Paperweight.  circa 1945 -1970.  This is a uniquely Chinese invention.  The paperweight is in the form of an upright peacock with its bright yellow plumage (train) on display.  The feathers have red feather eyes.  There is a molded neck and head on the lower surface.  Three red lines simulate a crest.  There are three types of millefiori used in the construction:  yellow feather canes, red eye canes, and a single large mosaic cane for the body.  We don't know exactly when these first appeared but they were found in the US during the 1960s, so I believe this is a post WWII product.  There is a single flat facet on the lower edge to allow the paperweight to stand upright.  A fun collectible.

Chinese Paperweights were made in the late 1920s and throughout the 1930s as an attempt to duplicate 19th Century antique weights made in the United States and France.  Because they are almost 100 years old, they are very collectible and every collector should own a few of these as study pieces.  The history of the early Chinese paperweights is mostly anecdotal as no written records have been discovered.  The story is that an American dealer sent examples of paperweights made by the New England Glass Company (NEGC), Boston & Sandwich Glass Company (B&S), Millville makers, and French factories to a Chinese factory and requested copies be made.  The results are interesting and sometimes confused with the originals by inexperienced collectors.  The earliest pictures of these paperweights appeared in the book American Glass Paperweights by Francis Edgar Smith published in 1939.  Smith was aware that at least one of the paperweights shown in his book was Chinese.  Since Smith was not an expert collector, this indicates that there was some general knowledge that these were Chinese prior to 1939.

In the United States, the Tariff Act of 1930 required that every imported item must be conspicuously and indelibly marked in English with its country of origin.  As a result, many of these Chinese paperweights are scratch signed on the bottom "CHINA".  Many are also not signed, suggesting that either they were imported prior to 1930 or the importer ignored the requirement.  Most likely the earliest Chinese paperweights were made prior to 1930.

The Chinese makers often combined design features found in paperweights from different makers.  For example they copied the latticinio grounds used by New England Glass Company and used them with copies of Baccarat Pansy weights.  The original Baccarat pansy paperweights never had a latticinio ground.  They copied the pedestal rose from Millville and then used the pedestal bottom with other weights. It is fun to collect all the variations. 

In general, Chinese paperweights from the 1930s have a light weight glass mixture that is high in soda and has a greenish tinge. The glass also has a soft almost oily feel. Frequently they have bubbles or debris in the glass.  And because of their age, many of these have minor scratches or other surface defects.  Chinese paperweights made in the 1970s and later usually have better quality glass and are free of debris. 

Large Size:  3 5/16" at the widest by 3 1/8" high by just under 1 1/4" thick.  The back is ground flat.  The lower edge has been ground flat to allow the peacock to rest upright.
Signature: Signed with a "MADE IN CHINA" paper label on the back.
Condition:  Excellent condition.  There are a few minor scratches on the back, but no other scratches or chips found on inspection.   

For extra pictures, click on the picture at the right and the following links: 

Large picture
Side
Back
Label
Another view showing flat base
SOLD.

Click on the picture to see a larger image.

Click on the picture to see a larger image
Chinese Yellow Millefiori  Peacock Paperweight
4459 1930s Chinese Footed Orange-Red Crimp Rose Paperweight.  circa 1930.  This paperweight is a well executed almost antique 1930s Chinese copy of a Millville Crimp Rose.  It has 11 orange-red colored petals and four green leaves.  The petals are arranged in a 4+4+3 pattern.  There is a double foot at the base.  As is typical of Chinese paperweights from this period, the glass has a greenish tinge and there are many tiny bubbles in the glass. 

The South Jersey Crimp Rose is one of the most famous American paperweights.  The best makers were Emil Larson of Vineland, New Jersey and Ralph Barber of Millville, New Jersey.  There were also other makers.  Newell's Old Glass Paperweights of Southern New Jersey shows examples of both the South Jersey weight and the 1930s Chinese copy.

Chinese Paperweights were made in the late 1920s and throughout the 1930s as an attempt to duplicate 19th Century antique weights made in the United States and France.  Because they are almost 100 years old, they are very collectible and every collector should own a few of these as study pieces.  The history of the early Chinese paperweights is mostly anecdotal as no written records have been discovered.  The story is that an American dealer sent examples of paperweights made by the New England Glass Company (NEGC), Boston & Sandwich Glass Company (B&S), Millville makers, and French factories to a Chinese factory and requested copies be made.  The results are interesting and sometimes confused with the originals by inexperienced collectors.  The earliest pictures of these paperweights appeared in the book American Glass Paperweights by Francis Edgar Smith published in 1939.  Smith was aware that at least one of the paperweights shown in his book was Chinese.  Since Smith was not an expert collector, this indicates that there was some general knowledge that these were Chinese prior to 1939.

In the United States, the Tariff Act of 1930 required that every imported item must be conspicuously and indelibly marked in English with its country of origin.  As a result, many of these Chinese paperweights are scratch signed on the bottom "CHINA".  Many are also not signed, suggesting that either they were imported prior to 1930 or the importer ignored the requirement.  Most likely the earliest Chinese paperweights were made prior to 1930.

In general, Chinese paperweights from this period have a light weight glass mixture that is high in soda and has a greenish tinge. The glass also has a soft almost oily feel. Frequently they have bubbles or debris in the glass.  And because of their age, many of these have minor scratches or other surface defects.

Size:  3 1/8" diameter by 3 7/16" high.  The base is just over 2 7/16" diameter and has a double foot.  The center is ground concave.
Signature:  Unsigned, but I guarantee that this is a Chinese paperweight from about 1930.
Condition:  Very good condition with one faint 1/8" circular impact mark on the side (see picture).  No other cracks or chips.  No noticeable scratches found on inspection.  Some wear on the base.  As stated above, the glass has a greenish tinge and there are many tiny bubbles in the glass.  It is a well executed example.

For extra pictures, click on the picture at the right and the following links: 

Large picture
Top view
Another view
Side view
Base
Faint circular impact mark on side (1/8")
Profile
$145 postage paid in the US.

Click on the picture to see a larger image.
Click on the picture to see a larger image
1930s Chinese Footed Orange-Red Crimp Rose Paperweight
1537 Magnum Chinese Blue Pedestal Rose Paperweight.  circa 1980-2000.  This is a modern Chinese blue pedestal rose paperweight with 30 blue colored petals and five green leaves.  The petals are arranged in six rings in a 6+6+6+5+4+3 pattern.  The design is set on a pedestal stem with three knops and a white and green frit base.  A large example of a modern Chinese lampwork rose.  

Unlike the 1930s copies of Millville crimp roses, this example thin petals and appears to be a lampwork assembly.  Lampwork flowers are assembled at a hot torch (lamp) before being encased in glass.  Crimp roses are made by a more difficult process that creates the rose in a single step using a metal crimp.

Chinese Paperweights were made in the late 1920s and throughout the 1930s as an attempt to duplicate 19th Century antique weights made in the United States and France.  Because they are almost 100 years old, they are very collectible and every collector should own a few of these as study pieces.  The history of the early Chinese paperweights is mostly anecdotal as no written records have been discovered.  The story is that an American dealer sent examples of paperweights made by the New England Glass Company (NEGC), Boston & Sandwich Glass Company (B&S), Millville makers, and French factories to a Chinese factory and requested copies be made.  The results are interesting and sometimes confused with the originals by inexperienced collectors.  The earliest pictures of these paperweights appeared in the book American Glass Paperweights by Francis Edgar Smith published in 1939.  Smith was aware that at least one of the paperweights shown in his book was Chinese.   Since Smith was not an expert collector, this indicates that there was some general knowledge that these were Chinese prior to 1939.  Chinese paperweights continued to be made throughout the 20th century and now into the 21st century with greatly improved quality.

Very large size:  3 9/16” diameter by 5 1/8” high.  The base is 3 1/4" diameter.  The base is ground flat.  It weighs 46 ounces (2 pounds, 14 ounces).
Signature: Unsigned, but I guarantee that this is made in China circa 1980-2000. 
Condition:  Excellent condition with no cracks, chips or scratches found on inspection.

For extra pictures, click on the picture at the right and the following links:

Large picture
Top view
Side view
Another picture
Frit base

SOLD.

Click on the picture to see a larger image.

Click on the picture to see a larger image
Magnum Chinese Blue Pedestal Rose Paperweight
3222 Chinese Pedestal Scrambled Millefiori Paperweight, 1930s.  circa 1930.  This is a good example of a Chinese 1930s pedestal form scrambled millefiori paperweight.  It has a great assortment of millefiori canes and twist canes.  Even though this was intended to be a copy of a French scramble or end of day weight from 1845-1860 (probably St. Louis or Clichy), the Chinese factory made it in a pedestal form more common with paperweights from Millville, New Jersey.  Either way, it will not fool today's collectors.  Often these paperweights can be found scratch signed "CHINA" on the base or more rarely signed with a cane signature, but this example is unsigned.  As with most Chinese paperweights, this paperweight has a light weight glass mixture that is high in soda and has a green-yellow tinge. The glass has a soft oily feel and there are some light scratches and small nicks.  Good color and condition.

Note on condition:  This paperweight is in very good condition for its age.  It has an internal fracture on the base (see pictures) that is solid and is not spreading.  It also has minor scratches but other cracks and no chips.

Large size:   Just under 2 3/4” diameter by 3 1/4"  high.  The base is ground concave. 
Signature:  Unsigned, but I guarantee that this was made in the 1930s in China.  
Condition:  This paperweight is in very good condition for its age.  It has an internal fracture on the base (see pictures) that is solid and is not spreading.  It also has minor scratches but other cracks and no chips.  

For extra pictures, click on the picture at the right and the following links: 

Large picture
Side view
Closeup
Profile
Base with internal fracture
Another view
$85 postage paid in the US.

Click on the picture to see a larger image.

Chinese Paperweights were made in the late 1920s and throughout the 1930s as an attempt to duplicate 19th Century antique weights made in the United States and France.  Because they are almost 100 years old, they are very collectible and every collector should own a few of these as study pieces.  The history of the early Chinese paperweights is mostly anecdotal as no written records have been discovered.  The story is that an American dealer sent examples of paperweights made by the New England Glass Company (NEGC), Boston & Sandwich Glass Company (B&S), Millville makers, and French factories to a Chinese factory and requested copies be made.  The results are interesting and sometimes confused with the originals by inexperienced collectors.  The earliest pictures of these paperweights appeared in the book American Glass Paperweights by Francis Edgar Smith published in 1939.  Smith was aware that at least one of the paperweights shown in his book was Chinese.  Since Smith was not an expert collector, this indicates that there was some general knowledge that these were Chinese prior to 1939.

In the United States, the Tariff Act of 1930 required that every imported item must be conspicuously and indelibly marked in English with its country of origin.  As a result, many of these Chinese paperweights are scratch signed on the bottom "CHINA".  Many are also not signed, suggesting that either they were imported prior to 1930 or the importer ignored the requirement.  Most likely the earliest Chinese paperweights were made prior to 1930.

The Chinese makers often combined design features found in paperweights from different makers.  For example they copied the latticinio grounds used by New England Glass Company and used them with copies of Baccarat Pansy weights.  The original Baccarat pansy paperweights never had a latticinio ground.  They copied the pedestal rose from Millville and then used the pedestal bottom with other weights. It is fun to collect all the variations. 

In general, Chinese paperweights from the 1930s have a light weight glass mixture that is high in soda and has a greenish tinge. The glass also has a soft almost oily feel. Frequently they have bubbles or debris in the glass.  And because of their age, many of these have minor scratches or other surface defects.  Chinese paperweights made in the 1970s and later usually have better quality glass and are free of debris.

Click on the picture to see a larger image
Chinese Pedestal Scrambled Millefiori Paperweight, 1930s



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Revised 9/19/2023     EI9