Based on the description, it is very likely a French laundry item called a “boule de lavage” (washing ball) or a scent diffuser, but the details you mention — two identical objects sitting on the counter, a rigid wire at the top that doesn’t move, and a body that doesn’t seem to open — point to a few more specific possibilities.
The most likely options:
1. French “lavender laundry sachet holder” / scent diffuser
In France, people often use small decorative objects in laundry rooms to keep clothes smelling fresh. Some have:
- a perforated or mesh body
- a fixed metal handle
- a cavity for dried lavender, fragrance beads, or scented material
The wire may simply be a handle, not a lid mechanism.
2. Washing machine anti-limescale balls
A common European laundry item is a reusable ball placed in the washing machine to:
- soften water
- reduce detergent use
- help agitate laundry
Some versions are hard plastic/ceramic and do not open at all. They are simply placed directly in the drum.
3. Laundry “egg” or detergent dispenser
Some detergent balls have a hinged top, but the hinge is often stiff. If it is meant to open, it usually:
- twists
- snaps apart
- has a seam around the middle
If you see no seam, don’t force it.
4. French “boule de séchage” (dryer ball)
A true dryer ball is usually:
- wool (soft/fuzzy), or
- solid plastic with holes/spikes
Most are not refillable.
A photo of the object from the side and bottom would make identification much easier. The bottom often reveals whether it is a washing-machine ball, diffuser, or decorative item.