Lot #14: Vintage Japanese glass fishing floats

Vintage Japanese glass fishing floats, historically used by fishermen to keep their nets and lines afloat in the ocean. Known as ukidama (buoy balls) or bindama (glass balls), they were traditionally hand-blown from recycled glass—often from old sake bottles—which gives them their signature seafoam green or aqua blue hues Most were produced between 1910 and 1970. Each float is unique, often featuring natural imperfections like air bubbles, swirls, or "straw marks" from the cooling process. The "Button": The thick, circular mark on the side is the seal button, where the glass was pinched off after being blown. Authentic floats may feature embossed manufacturer stamps on the seal button Pickup category timeslot {A}