New Martinsville Glass Seal #452 Balancing Ball Figurine

As though frozen in ice, this beautiful New Martinsville #452 glass seal perfectly balances a crystal ball on the tip of his upturned nose. The light makes mesmerizing twists and turns reflecting in his graceful body, and the smooth feel of this quality glass figurine is irresistible to the touch. He is quite heavy and will make a stunning addition to any decor.

He measures 6-inches long and 7-1/4 inches tall including the 1-1/2 inch diameter ball balanced on his nose. He is 5-1/4 inches across his outstretched flippers and 2-1/2 inches across his back flippers.

Made by New Martinsville circa 1938 to 1951, there is no mark.

There is a 1-1/2 inch vertical crease along his back, and several tiny bubbles within the glass. These are manufacturing flaws. There are two nearly imperceptible nicks along the underside of the seam that runs along the bottom edge, one near the tail and one on the tip of one flipper. These are not visible from the top. There is a small impact wound, less than 1/8-inch long right in front of the left flipper, as though something banged into it. It is not deep, and this too is not readily noticeable on this striking piece. Since these magnificent seals were often paired as bookends, it’s not hard to imagine something falling into it there. Other than the possibility of a little mold seam roughness, I find no other flaws.

This will be a stunning vintage addition to any home decor.