{"product_id":"17th-century-hand-forged-wrought-iron-warded-key","title":"18th century hand forged wrought iron warded key","description":"\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\"Chosen by Charlie\" - a piece selected by young Charlie Hall.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAn 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eSurviving 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eMeasuring: 13.5 cm\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rob Hall Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47997096624293,"sku":null,"price":75.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1151\/3980\/files\/IMG_7169.jpg?v=1783616088","url":"https:\/\/robhallantiques.com\/products\/17th-century-hand-forged-wrought-iron-warded-key","provider":"Rob Hall Antiques","version":"1.0","type":"link"}