Gorgeous gazing globes

Gazing balls, mirror balls, or lawn globes are said to have originated during the 13th century created by artisan glass blowers in Venice. A beautiful addition to any garden, they were also believed to ward off evil, or bring good luck.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Popular in Victorian England, they were displayed inside affluent homes. Bavarian king Ludwig had different sizes hung in trees, floated in ponds and displayed atop ornate pedestals around his castle, his obsession with the glass orbs is credited with their use as Christmas tree ornaments.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Also known as “butler balls,” the reflective globe would be placed strategically on a dining room sideboard so Victorian Era servants could remain outside the room and still see when service was required. Indoor gazing balls were also used to unobtrusively chaperone young couples during courtship.