What is the search criteria used in the Recents Folder?

I used your criteria and used the raw query and entered kMDItemLastUsedDate - got the typical saved message -

“Searching “Recents”.savedSearch” already exists. Do you want to replace it? Yes - and got this error code: The operation can’t be completed. An unexpected error occurred (error code -50).

In your answer I had seen that primary criteria before but couldn't find it again. So thanks for that info! I had recently bought this new MacBook Pro in early June to replace my MacBook Pro Mid 2015. Unfortunately I encountered a problem with the MacBook Pro Mid 2015 and had to reinstall the operating system at the Apple Store. I had backup of all the content and reinstalled on my new MacBook Pro. That's where I've encountered the problem with Spotlight and Recents. I think the issue is with Spotlight. An example is I put in a search term like "Landscape" and it resolved and lists a whole set of files. But all dates precede my purchase of the new MacBook Pro. I know there are more files with that term since I'm currently working on them. At this point I may just open a ticket with Apple.

First off I know enough to be an idiot. I found the answer on Reddit By: yjauk

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4 mo. ago

I have been having the same issue, and I think I found a fix by accident today. When you click on Recents in the Sidebar, at the top of the list window, it shows: Search: (This Mac) (Recents). Make sure (Recents) is NOT selected! I think if must have changed the default in another search, and it stayed there for Recents. Since Recents is a smart folder with no real contents, searching Recents for Recents returns noting. Hope this helps!

I just wanted to take the time to thank you for your help. I ended up just creating a smart Folder that does what I wanted Recents to do. I have narrowed my criteria for the file types I'm interested in.