This hourglass is a reproduction of one dated from the 18th century, found in Castile, in Villafrechos Convent , and whose maker is unknown.

Sandglasses were used in Renaissance Europe to time arrival of citizens at civic functions. They accompany professors to the classroom along with their books and manuscripts, and they marked the time for domestic prayers, until well into the 18th century. Public speeches and sermons were the most notable events timed with them.