Purple Glass Target Ball or Witch Ball
Decorative art, blown glass ornament/functional object • Unknown artisan glassmaker, possibly American (e.g., Boston & Sandwich Glass Company) or European (Bohemian or English glassworks)
Style & Movement
Victorian Era / Early 20th Century Americana
Medium & Technique
Amethyst-colored blown glass with a clear glass base. The piece features a pontil-like aperture above the base and a quilted or 'diamond' optic mold pattern on the sphere.
Creation Period
Late 19th to early 20th century (c. 1880–1920)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 4-6 inches in height; spherical format on a circular base
Subject Description
A deep purple spherical glass object resting on an integral clear circular foot. The sphere shows a subtle textured pattern. The hole near the base indicates it may have functioned as a target ball for shooting practice or, more likely given the base, as a 'witch ball' decoration or inkwell insert.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good. The glass appears vibrant, though there is visible surface dust and potential minor abrasions consistent with age.
Estimated Market Value
$75 - $200 USD
Auction Estimate
$50 - $150 USD
Provenance History
Likely an heirloom or found object; no visible labels or stamps are present in the documentation. Common in mid-Atlantic and New England households during the turn of the century.
Art Historical Significance
Reflects the popularity of colored art glass in the late 19th century. While once functional (used in shooting matches), they became popular folk-magic items (witch balls) believed to ward off evil spirits in the home.
Notable Features
The contrast between the amethyst sphere and the clear base, the optic mold texture, and the distinctive 'blow hole' which identifies the manufacturing process.
Condition Issues
Accumulated dust and residue on the interior and exterior; minor shelf wear on the bottom of the base; potential micro-chipping around the central hole.
Conservation Recommendations
Gentle cleaning with distilled water and a mild surfactant. Avoid extreme temperature changes to prevent stress fractures in the glass.
Collector Notes
All one piece. Note hole above base.