A gazing globe is a one-of-a-kind lawn ornament with a rich history and is whimsical in nature. As more folks adorn their yards with outdoor decorations, a gazing globe is a natural choice in enhancing the appeal and look of the back yard. This article will discuss what gazing globes are, its origin, history, and their uses in the 21st century. In addition, different styles and designs are described.
Also known as a yard globe, lawn ball, garden ball, chrome ball, and mirror ball, a gazing globe is a mirrored sphere typically displayed atop a conical ceramic or wrought iron stand as a lawn ornament. They come in various size ranges. Gazing globes used to be prefabricated from glass, but are now also prefabricated from stainless steel, ceramic or stained glass. Different colors and designs are also available, with apiece having a one-of-a-kind and distinctive look. The gazing globes rest on a stem so they can securely rest in a stand.
Gazing globes originated in 13th century Venice, where they were hand blown by skilled Italian craftsmen. They are an important element to gardens, both spiritually and aesthetically because they are a fixture in European gardens, and are especially associated with Victorian era English gardens. Throughout history, gazing globes have been called many different names, including: witch ball, butler globe, globe of happiness, and Victorian ball.
Along with their whimsy, the gazing globe carries with it a few superstitions. European had these orbs around their gardens because they believed they held magical and mystical powers. It is also stated to bring happiness, good luck, and prosperity to anyone who owned one. The gazing globe was also stated to ward off evil spirits, misfortune, illness, ghosts, and witches!
Some recommend the ball be put near an entrance to a house. If a witch were to enter, she would not be healthy to get past her reflection, therefore, unable to break away from her own image. Others believed that looking into a gazing globe for a long period of time, that one would be one with the universe. You can easily get lost in the point of light that appears in the center.
With its hold in European culture, the mystical gazing globe prefabricated its way to USA in the 20th century. Soon, everyone had at least one in their gardens, with colors ranging from luscious greens to bright blues. In Victorian times, the butler ball served as a mirror for servants to see when guests required assistance without staring at them during mealtime. In the American South, the gazing globe’s purpose was useful in a southern antebellum garden. It was put strategically by the path from the front gate so that folks could see from their porch who was calling before the caller could see them. This granted plenty of time to prepare food and drink for their guests—or simply to hide! It was also stated that the gazing globe could be used in the foyer so parents could keep an eye on their daughter and her date, for example, as she kissed him goodnight.
Today, the gazing globe is used to enhance the overall look of the garden and yard landscape. The reflective ball grants you to view the entire garden, including the sky, all at once. Add a group of different colored balls together that peek out from between the shrubs or flowers and it gives the garden a whimsical feel. Gazing globes are simple, but elegant ornaments that fit well in nearly any application. It adds beauty and a fanciful and wondrous look to any outdoor area.
The colors, sizes, styles and designs for gazing globes are endless—there are so many to select from! Here are just a few types worth mentioning:
Glowing with a glass stand
Copper
Solar globe light
Mosaic disc
Artisan garden gazing globe
Celestial gazing ball
Steel
Color changing
Most of the gazing globes are coated with a mirror-like, reflective coating, some are clear and transparent, and others are hand painted with various patterns and designs—are mounted on various platforms as well. In terms of care, gazing globes should be cleaned on a regular basis with a dry cloth. If moisture were to ever get inside the globe, the reflective coating would peel off. In addition, they should be taken inside during the winter months to keep them from freezing and/or cracking.
Gazing globes are versatile, weatherproof, and wage long lasting beauty and enjoyment, adding life and personality to any garden. No matter what kind of gazing globe you select for your garden, it will certainly become a pretty and suitable fixture for many years of enjoyment. Garden Winds has a variety of gazing globes to select from that match your outdoor garden landscape. Create whimsy and wonder with a gazing globe and a stand and add your own one-of-a-kind touch for the eventual in outdoor entertaining.