Saint-Louis Dog Paperweight – Limited Edition

The Saint-Louis Dog Paperweight is a 2018 limited edition of 88 pieces, crafted using the blowtorch lampwork technique. The dog is rendered in brown-black crystal with white ears — a symbol of wealth in oriental tradition — and its muzzle, eyes, and claws are detailed with the precision that only lampwork allows. A ball sits beneath the dog’s foot, giving an illusion of movement and play. The figure stands on a white muslin background encircled by a line of transparent crystal rods, surrounded by green, white, and amethyst. The perimeter is finished with a matte pearl cut. Each piece is numbered and dated, and comes with a certificate of authenticity.

Saint-Louis is the only crystal factory in the world still capable of making paperweights, a distinction it has maintained since resuming annual production in 1953. Within the paperweight atelier, two glassmakers hold the Meilleur Ouvrier de France distinction, and one is a Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres. The blowtorch lampwork technique requires the artisan to build the figure entirely by hand using fine glass rods and a precise flame, assembling each detail — ears, claws, ball, background — individually before the completed scene is encased in crystal. It is among the most labor-intensive techniques practiced at the Cristallerie.

Each year since 1953, Saint-Louis has produced a new limited edition paperweight, signed, numbered, and dated. The Dog belongs to the Chinese zodiac series, and its edition of 88 reflects the number’s significance in Chinese culture as a symbol of good fortune. Established in 1586, Saint-Louis stands as Europe’s oldest crystal manufacturer, holding the title of Royal Cristallerie since 1781.