18th century hand forged wrought iron warded key
18th century hand forged wrought iron warded key
18th century hand forged wrought iron warded key
18th century hand forged wrought iron warded key

18th century hand forged wrought iron warded key

£75

"Chosen by Charlie" - a piece selected by young Charlie Hall.  

An early hand-forged wrought iron warded lock key of elegant proportions, retaining its original heart-shaped bow, decorative baluster collar and slender cylindrical shank terminating in a pierced rectangular bit. Entirely forged by hand, the key displays the subtle hammer marks, gentle irregularities and rich surface texture characteristic of 18th-century blacksmith-made ironwork.

The pierced bit is typical of the traditional warded locking system, designed to pass fixed internal wards before engaging the bolt. The refined proportions, attractive heart-shaped bow and turned baluster collar distinguish this example from the heavier medieval forms and place it firmly amongst the more sophisticated domestic keys of the 18th century.

Surviving with an excellent untouched surface and deep naturally developed patina, this is an honest and attractive example of early English wrought ironwork, equally suitable for a collection of historic locks and keys or as a decorative object in its own right.

Measuring: 13.5 cm

18th century hand forged wrought iron warded key
18th century hand forged wrought iron warded key
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