I know from the seller that this old whimsy came from an amazing estate on Madeline Island in Lake Superior that had been built by two Norwegian brothers in 1905 and was filled to the brim with a lifetime collection of antiques. With its original (pretty mellow) gold paint, I believe it dates to the first quarter of the 20th c, and is a good one either hung from one nail or just sitting on the shelf. Nicely carved and balls roll around freely. 

All carved from one piece of wood. Each ball in cage measures about 4" tall and 1 1/4" wide and deep; overall 3 3/8" wide. Very good condition.