FISHING FLOAT
CultureJapan
Dimensions9 cm (3 9/16 in.)
Object numberHF.2015.40.5
DescriptionA round Japanese fishing float made of light green glass. A rectangular paper label is adhered to the exterior of the float with black cursive writing which reads “’Japanese fishing float that are found in numerous beaches on Alaska West Coast”. Within the glass are small and large bubbles (air traps). The base of the float is sealed with a circular melted glass button on which is a small, embossed character. Narrative
Glass fishing floats have been used in Japan since 1910 and replaced floats made of paulownia wood. Produced in a variety of sizes from 1.5 inches all the way up to 18 inches, Japanese fishing floats were typically made from recycled sake bottles, giving the floats their characteristic green colour.
