Large Ceramic or Clay Ball

This is a large ceramic or clay ball that I purchased recenlty and was wondering if it was anything other than that. It measures about 4 1/2" diameter, weighs about 1 pound 6 ounces and has a design on it and has a hole in each end.

Doeas any know anything else about it? Thanks in advance for any information.

 

Wondering if it might be a carpet bowl ?, size is about right

https://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/antique-vtg-victorian-clay-carpet-440444087

Does it roll ok (carefully now)

 

My husband's guess is that it is a net float that someone drilled holes in. Have to admit that the holes aren't uniform and might have been added later.

 

It looks like a float that wouldn't float!

 

I hesitate to say "net float" - too heavy. Before styrofoam, they were glass, not ceramic.

I'd go with carpet ball, although it might just be a "decorator" replica.

 

Julie Pankhurt..........beats Patty Kelly.....not by much.....but still !

Yes..I'm addicted to Love !

 

schwing

 

I am guessing decorative vs functional. The holes are there to release the air in the ball as the air expanded when heating in the kiln. If they weren't there the "ball" would be a crumbled mound when firing was completed.