Sand Clock And Scythe Print, Death, 17th Century, Winged Hourglass Woodcut – Occult Illustration, Masonic Poster, Fantasy Art, Wings, Occult Symbol, Esoteric Picture, Memento Mori #284

This Sand Clock and Scythe Print is a reproduction of a 17th-century woodcut, a striking memento mori emblem. Known as the Winged Hourglass with Scythe, the image represents the flight of time and the inevitability of death.

Death And The Flight Of Time

In the design, a winged hourglass hovers above a scythe, uniting two of the most powerful symbols of mortality. The wings suggest the fleeting nature of human life, “time flying away,” while the scythe is the ancient instrument of harvest, symbolizing death’s certainty. Together they form one of the most enduring esoteric and Masonic emblems of the early modern era.

This print is not merely a decorative image but a symbolic meditation tool, long used in mystical, Masonic, and alchemical contexts to remind adepts of mortality and the pursuit of eternal wisdom.

Available as a fine art print on antiqued paper for a historical look, or on canvas for a bold esoteric statement. Delivered unframed, ready for custom framing to suit your occult, symbolic, or Masonic décor.

Symbolism and Esoteric Meaning

• The Winged Hourglass. – A symbol of time’s flight, the fleeting nature of existence, and the urgency of wisdom.

• The Scythe. – Represents death, harvest, and transformation, cutting through all illusion.

• Wings. – Spiritual dimension of time, suggesting the soul’s passage beyond earthly limits.

• Memento Mori. – A reminder to live wisely, conscious of the certainty of death.

• Esoteric Tradition. – Used in Masonic symbolism as a sign of humility before the eternal.

Together, these elements convey the profound truth that time is fleeting, death is inevitable, and wisdom lies in living with awareness.

Historical and Cultural Context

The winged hourglass and scythe appeared frequently in 17th-century funerary art, emblem books, and Masonic symbolism. Such images were intended as moral and spiritual reminders, calling viewers to reflection on mortality, humility, and the eternal soul.

As a memento mori, this woodcut belongs to a long tradition stretching back to medieval Europe, where skulls, bones, and time symbols reminded people of the transience of earthly glory. In esoteric contexts, it became a powerful symbol of initiation, transformation, and immortality of the soul.

Why Choose This Print?

• Authentic reproduction of a 17th-century woodcut of the winged hourglass and scythe.

• Features timeless memento mori and Masonic symbolism.

• Available on antiqued paper or canvas.

• Delivered unframed – ready for custom framing.

• Perfect for occultists, Masons, and lovers of esoteric art.

• A rare artifact connecting funerary symbolism, esotericism, and mystical philosophy.

Perfect For

• Collectors of occult and Masonic prints.

• Practitioners of Hermeticism, Freemasonry, and ritual philosophy.

• Students of esotericism, symbolism, and early modern art.

• Decorators of occult, mystical, or academic interiors.

• Unique gifts for seekers of wisdom, transformation, and inner truth.

More Than Just An Occult Print

This Sand Clock and Scythe Print (#284) is more than an image – it is a meditation on mortality and eternity. With its winged hourglass and scythe, it captures the universal human truth: time flies, death comes, and wisdom endures. Displaying it links you to centuries of esoteric symbolism, Masonic philosophy, and mystical reflection.

Canvas vs. Hand-Made Paper — Print Comparison Guide