Unique example of Mid Century Murano Glass . Designed by master glassblower Alfredo Barbini, the Pear Paperweight is an excellent example of the Avventurina technique. The Pear could also be used as a bookend and has a flat side so as to lay flat against the book. It is a lovely thing to behold. Alfredo Barbini, a glass artist born in 1912 on the islands of Murano in the lagoon of Venice, Italy, was one of Murano's leading figures of the twentieth century. His parents were members of families which had been prominent in the glassmaking industry on Murano for generations as glassblowers and beadmakers. Artist died in 2007. His art is very collectable. Glass pear has dome scratches , not super noticeable but several scratches - see pictures, lowering price due to that.