Pair of Witch Balls with Vases 1850 - 1875

These delicate glass orbs, known as witch balls, likely date to the late 19th or early 20th century, though their maker is unknown. They're more than just decorative. Witch balls like these were often hung in windows to ward off evil spirits. The reflective surface and intricate patterns were believed to confuse and trap negative energy. The glassblowing process itself is key here. The maker would have gathered molten glass from a furnace, inflating it to create the spherical shape. The swirling patterns, created through careful manipulation of colored glass, show the maker's high level of skill. While these objects may seem simple, they represent a fusion of craft, superstition, and the everyday lives of those who sought protection through their ethereal beauty. They bridge the gap between the functional and the spiritual, reminding us of the power we invest in objects.