Invented in the early to mid-1800s, the glass target ball was a popular aerial gunnery target, being light enough for easy launching and coming apart quite impressively when struck. Though displaced for general use by the invention of the clay pigeon, the glass ball held a niche with exhibition shooters, sometimes being loaded with feathers or similar filler to make the breaks even more eye catching. While produced in quantity, as a consumable asset literally made to be broken, few have made it to the present day in one piece. Offered here are three examples of this very attractive target, two in blue and one clear. The lighter of the two blue examples is marked for N.B. Glass Works of Perth, Scotland. The darker blue example and the clear one appear to be unmarked, but are similar to those made by the Bogardus Glass Works.

All three are very fine with attractive color, minimal wear, and some typical light chipping near the openings. These are scarce and desirable pieces which would be an attractive addition to a gun room or antique shotgun collection!