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Late Victorian Hourglass Charm

Late Victorian Hourglass Charm

$500.00

Description

DATE: Victorian, c.1896

An hourglass (aka sand timer), has long been associated with death and was often found on grave stones from the middle ages through to the Victorian era. At the start of the Victorian era much of the population were not literate, although compulsory schooling was introduced in 1880, the majority of Victorians particularly the poor could not read.  So the symbols found on graves made them more meaningful for someone who may not be able to read the words

The hourglass is symbolic to time's inevitable passing and is a symbol of death, but also a symbol of rebirth and new beginnings when turned over. 

This charm dates from the late Victorian era, and, while it does measure out a length of time (approx. 2 seconds), it was likely intended as a symbolic Memento Mori piece more than anything else. Modelled in 9 karat gold with a glass inner chamber, dating from 1896. 

MEASUREMENTS 

2.2 x 1cm

WEIGHT 

1.6g

MARKS 

English hallmarks for 9k gold, London 1896

CONDITION 

Very good

Late Victorian Hourglass Charm Late Victorian Hourglass Charm

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