Principle of operation of a Kugel fountain
(A) Water flowing between the sphere and its shaped holder lifts the ball slightly.
(B) Water flows over the sides into a reservoir.
(C) Water is pumped back in an endless loop.
(D) Pump.
(E) Ball can easily be moved by hand.
A waterfeature or sculpture having a sphere that sits in a fitted hollow in a pedestal, supported by aquaplaning on a thin film of water, so that despite its weight it can be turned by hand.