Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
How old are hourglasses?
1 Answer
The first hourglass is believed to have been invented in the 8th century A.D. by Liutprand, a French monk. The first hourglass used sand to record the passage of time. However, modern designs use sand, liquid and other materials. Shop a selection of vintage hourglasses on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Shop for Hourglasses on 1stDibs
Hourglass by Tapio Wirkkala for Hetkinen Lapselle
Located in Sagaponack, NY
A dramatic and sharp hourglass encased in a lucite cube.
Category
20th Century Finnish More Desk Accessories
Materials
Glass
Venini Two Colors Mini Hourglass/Clessidre, Unsigned
By Paolo Venini
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This is a great and rare find because is one of the small hourglass ever made by Venini. Also this
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Modern Glass
Materials
Murano Glass
Midcentury Lucite Hourglass Sand Timer Sculpture After Charles Hollis Jones 1970
By Charles Hollis Jones
Located in Roma, IT
Amazing midcentury hourglass in bubble lucite with straight external lines. This fantastic item was
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Scientific Instruments
Materials
Lucite
1970s Pair of Vintage Lucite Hourglass Sculpture Style of Charles Hollis Jones
By Milo Baughman, Charles Hollis Jones
Located in Hyattsville, MD
Fun pair of functional sculptural accents.
Measures: LG - 4 1/8 x 4 1/8 x 9 1/8 in.
MD - 3 1/8 x 3 1/8 x 6 7/8 in.
Category
Vintage 1970s American Hollywood Regency Obelisks
Materials
Acrylic
19th Century XL Brass 7 Pound Weight Scale Apothecary Pharmacy Paperweight Desk
By Werkstätte Carl Auböck
Located in Hyattsville, MD
Heavy and very large, 7 pound scale weight, hourglass form.
Category
Antique Late 19th Century American Arts and Crafts Paperweights
Materials
Brass
