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Sandglass
unknown - Enlarge image
Sandglass
- Place of origin:
Italy (possibly, made)
- Date:
1550-1600 (made)
- Artist/Maker:
unknown (production)
- Materials and Techniques:
Glass in turned ivory frame
- Museum number:
83-1880
- Gallery location:
In store
During the 16th and 17th centuries sandglasses were used in various situations: in churches, typically to time the sermon; on ships to time the length of the watches; in the kitchens of wealthy households, probably to help judge cooking times. They are often illustrated in scholars' studies where they served meditation, or simply helped judge the time of day.
Sandglasses in this period were constructed from two matching glass ampoules sealed (often with wax or pitch) and bound with fabric at the joint. The 'sand' was usually a material less sensitive to moisture such as powdered metal, rock or eggshell.
It has not been possible to time the duration of this sandglass as the particles no longer run freely.

