Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
An exquisite, hand-blown glass paperweight featuring a lifelike, three-dimensional purple jellyfish suspended in clear solid glass. Crafted by master glassblower Richard Satava, this piece captures the delicate, translucent beauty of marine life with remarkable realism and depth.
Story
In the late 1980s, California glass artist Richard Satava visited the Monterey Bay Aquarium and became mesmerized by the ethereal movement of Pacific Coast jellyfish. He spent three years experimenting with ancient glass formulas and techniques to capture their translucent, floating essence in solid glass.
Maker / Origin
Richard Satava began his journey in glassblowing in 1977, establishing his own studio in Chico, California, in 1994. He is globally renowned for his 'Jellyfish Series,' which has been exhibited in prestigious museums and galleries worldwide. His work is highly sought after for its technical precision and organic beauty.
Condition & Value
The glass appears to be in excellent condition with no visible chips, deep scratches, or internal bruising. The base shows minor, expected shelf wear. Excellent condition is vital for preserving the optical clarity of the piece and maintaining its value.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.