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VOLTAIRE "SULPHIDE" PAPERWEIGHT, 1778

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles / Autographs Start Price:500.00 USD Estimated At:1,000.00 - 1,500.00 USD
VOLTAIRE  SULPHIDE  PAPERWEIGHT, 1778
The first known dated examples of sulphide images used in French glass-making originated from the Boileau factory near Paris in the form of a goblets and paperweights depicting French author Voltaire and Benjamin Franklin. In 1778, when the immensely popular Franklin met his good friend Voltaire at a session of the Acadamie des Sciences, a contemporary source records that they 'embraced amid the applause of an enthusiastic audience.' The event inspired portraits of Franklin and Voltaire in almost every medium. The historic paperwight we offer is a true rarity. Measuring 2 7/8" in diameter and 3/8" thick, it has multiple facets about its edges with a single large indent above the portrait. Voltaire is depicted in profile from mid-chest, up. The reverse of the portrait is lightly inscribed: "PB 1798". Some light scratches, largely on the reverse, could easily be buffed-out. In an early display box. One of the most desireable and collectible paperweights.

Estimate: $1,000 - 1,500.

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Part I: Lots 1-979 - September 27th, 2012

Part II: Lots 980-1845 - September 28th, 2012