Object Description
An 18th century sand glass within an oak cage, having a circular top and base with a reeded edge and ring turned surfaces, that are united by four oak spindles in the traditional manner. It is in full working condition, lasting for approximately a 15 minute duration, with two glass containers joined at the centre, which is earlier than the Victorian ones that were made in one piece. It has minor restoration to a chip on the bottom edge.
Sand glasses were used in convents until circa 1900, till watches were permitted. They were also used in the Royal Navy till circa 1839 and on pulpits for church sermons etc. Times varied from three minutes for small egg timers through to quarter, half hourly and hourly times for other various uses, until watches and clocks gradually superseded them, (see Pinto pages 279-280). This is a good example and has a good colour and patination.