Maritime Object (7) - Hand-blown glass Kanji marks- Rare set with 2 cylinder

A charming and varied set of 7 authentic Japanese hand-blown glass fishing floats, collected in northern Japan.
The lot includes two rare cylinder-type floats (rolling-pin style) and five spherical floats in mixed colours, among which two pieces feature desirable raised Kanji marks (yōkoku)—a highly collectible detail.

These floats were traditionally used by Japanese fishermen from the early to mid-20th century in regions such as Hokkaido and Tohoku. Japan began producing glass fishing floats in the early 1900s, replacing wooden and cork types due to the superior durability and buoyancy of glass.
By the 1930s–1960s, Japanese hand-blown floats were widely used across the Pacific and became the standard among long-distance fishing fleets.

Each float in this set was individually mouth-blown, resulting in natural bubbles, tool marks, swirl patterns, and gentle deformation—hallmarks of genuine working maritime glass.
Cylinder-type floats, included here, were typically used for longline or net stabilization and are considerably rarer than spherical examples.

Details

Quantity: 7 pieces
Types: 2 cylinders, 5 spheres
Special features:

Two floats with raised Kanji marks (yōkoku)

Natural hand-blown textures, bubbles, and seal buttons

Two floats with original netting (old natural-fibre rope and soft cotton)

Colours: aqua, blue-green, green, deep green, light amber

Sizes:

Spheres: approx. 5.3–9.5 cm diameter

Cylinders: approx. 13.2 cm and 14.8 cm length

Condition

Vintage/used condition.
These floats show natural signs of age—surface scratches, bubbles, tool marks, swirl lines, weathering, and minor wear from sea use.
All features are consistent with genuine early–mid 20th century working floats.
No modern reproductions.

Please check the photos carefully for the exact condition.

Shipping

Items will be carefully packed for international delivery and shipped via Japan Post (Registered International Mail / EMS / International Parcel) with tracking number.

Estimated delivery time:

Asia: approx. 1–2 weeks

Europe / North America: approx. 2–4 weeks

Important:
Import duties, VAT, or customs clearance fees may be charged by your country’s customs authorities.
These costs are the responsibility of the buyer.
Delivery times may vary depending on customs inspection.