This hanging ball is a beautiful replica of a sixteenth century Iznik/ 18th century Kutayah hanging ball.  
 
The purpose of these balls is unclear, although it's possible that they represent the orb of heaven. They hung in mosques from mosque lamps and separately from ceilings as decoration.  Spherical and egg shaped glass, metal or pottery ornaments were hung in both Muslim and Christian buildings.
 
Susan Deliss hangs these highly decorative balls in her home both from the ceiling and on hooks on walls. She also hangs them on her Christmas tree.  Susan loves the idea that they are part of a centuries old tradition of handcraft.
 
They make beautiful and unusual gifts. 
 
Some very small surface chips here and there.