Vintage Wooden Ball Percussion Mallet or Medical Hammer

This object is a specialized percussion tool, likely a vintage medical reflex hammer or a specific type of musical percussion mallet. It features a spherical head made of a dense, dark-grained hardwood with a matte, slightly textured finish. The head measures approximately 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter and displays a small black circular mark or inset on one side. A cylindrical metal fitting, possibly brass based on the slight golden patina, protrudes from the bottom of the spherical head, suggesting a dual-purpose striking surface. The handle is a slender wooden shaft that appears tightly integrated into the head, transitioning into a dark metal ferrule or grip at the distal end. The wood throughout shows a consistent aged patina with fine graining. Condition-wise, the item exhibits signs of historical use including minor surface scuffs on the sphere and oxidation on the metal components. There are no visible maker's marks or stamps in the current view. Given the construction materials and utilitarian design, it likely dates to the early to mid-20th century. The craftsmanship is precise, with smooth transitions between the wood and metal elements, indicating a high-quality professional instrument rather than a mass-produced toy.