The device below, at Kenyon College, is described in the 1860 Catalogue of E. S. Ritchie of Boston as a "Pneumatic and Hydrostatic Paradox, (for supporting a ball on a jet of water,) which includes paradox tunnel and balls, $1.50." The water pan to collect the spent water was extra. 

   The apparatus at the left at Middlebury College, shows the connection to the  condensing chamber filled with water and compressed air to produce the jet.