Fleeting Fox Antiques
A rare antique 19th century amber mercury glass witches ball bottle
A rare antique 19th century amber mercury glass witches ball bottle
A rare antique 19th century amber mercury glass witches ball bottle
A rare antique 19th century amber mercury glass witches ball bottle
A rare antique 19th century amber mercury glass witches ball bottle
A rare antique 19th century amber mercury glass witches ball bottle
A rare antique 19th century amber mercury glass witches ball bottle
A rare antique 19th century amber mercury glass witches ball bottle
A rare antique 19th century amber mercury glass witches ball bottle
A rare antique 19th century amber mercury glass witches ball bottle
A rare antique 19th century amber mercury glass witches ball bottle
A rare antique 19th century amber mercury glass witches ball bottle

A rare antique 19th century amber mercury glass witches ball bottle

Code: 10309

Dimensions:

H: 10cm (3.9")

SOLD

A wonderful 19th century amber mercury glass witches bottle ball. 

Witch balls were widely believed to be a protective device used to ward off evil spirits, especially the ‘evil eye’ and ‘witches’.

Examples like this with an open neck were made in such a way that objects such as wool, metal nails or hair could be placed inside. Alternatively these glass vessels could contain holy water or even human urine. A cork would have then been placed into the neck sealing the witch ball. 

These objects and liquids would have been used for their associated with magic protection practices. 

During the 18th and 19th century it was common place for these glass spheres to be suspended within the home. Hung in the window, the eye-catching reflective surface would ensnare the evil gaze of passing witches. It is said that the witch would then be entrapped by their reflection.

It is a particularly eye catching deep yellow gold colour, which now would serve as a stunning decorative piece for a window or by the fireplace, or even the perfect Christmas decoration. 

Total height - 10cm. 

The top of the neck has the rough edge from where it was snapped from the glass blowers pontil. 

With old twine hanging loop. 

Found in good condition with no cracks or chips. 

Some areas of foxing to the mercury surface. 

 

We wouldn't suggest using the twine to suspend the ball.

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