Maritime Objekte - Großer Vintage-Glas-Fischerschwimmer aus Japan mit Original-Geknüpftem Netz – Blau-Aquamarin-Glas –

A striking and substantial vintage Japanese glass fishing float, retaining its old original rope net and hanging loop.

This is an impressive large example, measuring approximately 81 cm in circumference, corresponding to a diameter of approximately 26 cm, and weighing around 2.5 kg.

Originally made for practical use in Japanese commercial fishing, large glass floats such as this were designed to withstand demanding conditions at sea. Today, surviving examples with their old rope netting still intact have a particularly strong maritime character and decorative presence.

One of the most attractive features of this piece is its aged original rope net. The rope has developed a rich dark-brown patina, with natural discoloration, surface wear and texture accumulated over many years.

The net is constructed with numerous individually tied knots surrounding the glass sphere, creating a beautifully irregular geometric pattern. Around the upper section, several lengths of rope are gathered and firmly wrapped together to form the suspension point and hanging loop.

This type of dense, hand-knotted netting is especially appreciated by collectors and interior-design enthusiasts, as the rope itself becomes an important part of the visual character of the float. When suspended, the combination of the large glass sphere and the complex network of aged rope creates a very sculptural appearance.

The glass color is also particularly appealing.

Rather than the more commonly encountered green or greenish-aqua tone, this float has a noticeably stronger blue character — a clear marine blue to blue-aqua shade. Depending on the surrounding light, the glass can appear pale blue, turquoise-blue or deeper ocean blue, especially where the glass is thicker.

Blue-dominant examples of this type are encountered less frequently than the familiar greenish floats, making the color an especially attractive feature of this piece.

The glass itself displays characteristics associated with older utilitarian glass production, including:

Numerous small trapped air bubbles
Natural variations in glass thickness
Slight waves and distortions in the surface
Irregularities created during manufacture
A visible sealed area typical of traditional glass fishing floats

These features give the glass wonderful depth and character, particularly when natural light passes through it.

Because of its large size and complete rope net, this float makes an impressive decorative object. It can be displayed hanging from a wooden beam, veranda or covered terrace, or incorporated into a coastal, Scandinavian, rustic or maritime interior. Near a window or in natural daylight, the blue glass produces especially beautiful reflections and changes subtly throughout the day.

The contrast between the cool blue glass and the warm, weathered brown rope gives the piece a strong yet understated presence.

The rope and glass show natural signs of age and genuine working use. These traces are an essential part of the history and character of an authentic vintage fishing float and should not be regarded as modern imperfections.

Approximate dimensions

Circumference: 81 cm
Diameter: 26 cm
Weight: 2.5 kg

Condition

The float is in very good vintage condition, especially considering that it was originally used in actual commercial fishing.

The glass remains remarkably clean and well preserved, with no major chips, cracks or heavy damage visible.

As expected from an authentic working fishing float, there are some light surface scratches, small scuffs and minor signs of use, but these are relatively limited and do not detract from the overall appearance.

The original rope net also shows natural age-related wear, discoloration and surface texture, but remains intact and retains its attractive old maritime character.

Overall, this is a well-preserved and visually beautiful example with only modest signs of genuine use and age.

Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description and show the condition, glass characteristics and aged rope net in detail.

Shipping

The item will be carefully packed and shipped from Japan using an appropriate tracked international shipping service.

Delivery times vary depending on the destination, shipping service used, customs clearance, and international transportation conditions.

Tracking information will be provided after shipment.
Import Duties and Taxes

Import duties, VAT, customs clearance charges, or other fees may be applied by the destination country’s customs authority.

Any such charges are the buyer’s responsibility.