Brass and glass hourglass

This is a decorative hourglass featuring a brass-colored metal frame and a clear glass bulb containing white sand. The top cap of the hourglass is circular and displays a central embossed or engraved image depicting a winged figure, possibly a cherub or mythological motif, surrounded by four stars. An outer border on the top cap features a repeating pattern of dots and pseudo-symbolic or zodiac-like glyphs. The structure is supported by four turned, spool-shaped pillars with small spherical finials projecting above the top plate. The base plate features embossed Roman numerals around its perimeter, including IX, X, XI, and XII. The metal shows a warm, aged patina with minor surface variations and slight discoloration, consistent with vintage decorative objects manufactured from brass alloys. The glass bulb appears intact and clear, though overall physical condition and age remain unverified due to the limitations of visual assessment. There are no clearly visible maker marks or stamps discernible in the photograph. The piece embodies a classic, esoteric aesthetic often associated with decorative desk accessories or novelty timepieces from the late 20th century.

Based on what I can see in the photograph, this is a decorative brass-colored and glass hourglass featuring esoteric motifs such as zodiac-style glyphs and Roman numerals. I can't verify the exact metallic composition from a photo, and physical inspection would need to confirm whether the frame is solid brass or a plated base metal. The item exhibits a warm, aged patina with minor surface variations, but overall physical condition and age remain unverified due to the limitations of visual assessment. There are no clearly visible maker marks or stamps discernible to establish a specific manufacturer. Assuming this piece dates to the late 20th century as a decorative desk accessory, comparable items of this type typically trade in the $45 to $75 range within the current secondary decorative market. Demand for novelty timepieces and esoteric desk objects is generally modest and driven primarily by interior decor trends rather than collector demand. If physical examination were to reveal that the item is a modern mass-market reproduction, replica, or copy rather than a vintage piece, the value would likely decrease to the $15 to $30 range. To establish a more precise evaluation and assess authenticity or exact age, an in-person examination by a decorative arts specialist, hallmark verification, and material testing would be required.