Overview
This is a mesmerizing example of American studio glass, featuring a complex 'pulled feather' latticino design surrounding a shimmering, iridescent dichroic core.
Identification
Robert Eickholt Studio Glass Paperweight, c.1991
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Story
Robert Eickholt's Columbus, Ohio studio brought aerospace-grade dichroic glass techniques to accessible fine art paperweights between 1978 and 2013.
Maker / Origin
Eickholt is celebrated in the American Studio Glass movement for capturing the illusions of cosmic nebulae and deep-sea environments within solid crystal spheres.
Condition & Value
Because these forms are meant to be handled as tactile objects, even microscopic 'flea bites' or base bruising will severely degrade the secondary market value. The glass appears remarkably clear with no visible 'bruises' or internal fractures. The base shows light, age-appropriate shelf wear and a clear, authentic etched signature.
Full Research
See what it's actually worth.
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Market Analysis
The market for Robert Eickholt's paperweights is highly liquid and well-documented, with valuation heavily dependent on scale and internal complexity. Single standard-sized (3 to 4-inch) paperweights from his 1990–1992 era consistently clear the secondary market between $35 and $60, as evidenced by a 1990 fountain-form piece selling for $45 on eBay and a lot of three jellyfish paperweights hammering for $160 (averaging ~$53 each) at Invaluable. While retail gallery asks, such as a pinched modern form listed by The Paperweight Collection, can reach $80 to $95, actual auction realization remains more conservative due to the plentiful supply of his 35-year output. The base wholesale floor is demonstrated by a 1991 paperweight achieving a $20 clearing bid at Alexandria Auctions. A critical factor for this specific item's liquidity is correct attribution; marketing the piece under the frequently misread 'Ticknor' signature will sever it from the established Eickholt collector base, significantly depressing its final realized price.
Value Drivers
▲ Presence of dichroic glass inclusions, which create highly desirable iridescent, color-shifting optical effects
▲ Dated production year (1991), placing it in the desirable early-middle period of Eickholt's career
▲ Complex internal 'pulled feather' and bubble structures that showcase technical glassblowing proficiency
Concerns
▼ High production volume over a 35-year career limits scarcity-driven premiums for standard-sized pieces
▼ The misread 'Ticknor' signature will heavily suppress visibility and bids if not correctly listed as Robert Eickholt
▼ Severe value deductions will apply if the piece has any undocumented 'flea bites', surface scratches, or base bruises
Best Venue
eBay or Studio Glass Collector Groups (Facebook/Forums)
Upside Potential
If the paperweight is a 'magnum' size (exceeding 4-5 inches in diameter) rather than a standard size, its value could command a 30-50% premium, pushing toward the $75–$100 range.
The upgraded report is now attached to this item.