I have always been fascinated by looking at balls, that bright, reflective colorful orb that usually perches on a stand. As I found out, their history is as colorful and varied as they are! This decorative garden ornament is packed with history (basically boring), tradition, and legend (fun facts).
First we have to time travel to the 13th century (now that is time travel). Expert glassblowers from Venice produced the beautiful shiny spheres. Personally, they most likely wore weird parts and had a bit of fun, but that’s just my opinion! Then fast forward to the early 17th century, an Italian priest and chemist referred to them as “spheres of light.” Around the same time, another famous individual, Francis Bacon, declared that “a suitable garden should have rounded colored balls for the sun to play.” Observation balls gained great popularity during the Victorian era, they were used both outside and at home. Also in the 19th century, King Louis of Bavaria had balls tied across his garden at Herrenchiemsse castle (try saying that 3 times faster) so the popularity continued. As I mentioned, basically boring!
Legend and lore have some fun facts. An observation ball is said to bring happiness, good luck, and prosperity to those who own it. The world was known to drive away evil spirits and bad luck. Lore says that a witch could not stop looking at herself or the other version is that she could not bear to look at her image, either way she will stay away from you! Balls made of colored glass unlike the mirror type are believed to attract and trap evil spirits. The Victorians found a practical use for them, hence the name “butler’s ball”. Strategically located, the servant could monitor the needs of the guests without having to look at them, but magically reach out to assist the visitor. The South realized this and posted them at the front door so they could see who was coming and have time to hide or make a glass of tea (that’s the first version of detection calls). Let’s not forget the wedding gift, to bring the happiness of the bride to her new home.
Fast forward to today … observation balls are used today for garden decoration. They can improve the overall look of your garden. Whatever your theme, there is a matching globe in blown glass, stainless steel, copper or ceramic. The reflective orb allows you to see flowers, sky and garden structures at a glance. Not only among the flowers, but they can be placed in the pond, bird bath or hung on the trees.
A word of caution: the seal on the ball’s neck should never be loosened or removed. The moisture inside the ball will cause the reflective materials to come off (ugh). Observation balloons should be taken during cold months to prevent freezing or cracking. Rain won’t damage the ball, but a violent storm can blow branches and break glass.
Observation balls are used in famous gardens around the world, why not let one reflect your personality and bring that eye-catching appeal to your garden. Plus a little luck never hurts anyone!