16th-17th Century European iron door lock plate
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
ca. 16th to 17th century CE
This antique European door plate fitting, originating from the 16th to 17th century, is crafted from iron and features an integrated locking mechanism. The plate is distinguished by its elaborate openwork edges, which are designed with decorative, elegant scrolls.
The surface is embellished with fine etched tulip motifs, complemented by detailed stippled and crosshatched texturing that adds depth and artistic flair to the metalwork. Centrally positioned on the plate is a rectangular keyhole intended for a door locking mechanism. The reverse side features a functional coiled spring lever associated with the internal locking apparatus. To facilitate mounting, the object includes a thin, flat panel at its widest end, which is equipped with pierced holes for secure attachment to a door edge.
Measuring approximately 9.5 inches in length and 4.5 inches in width, this piece exemplifies the functional yet highly decorative metal craftsmanship typical of high-quality architectural hardware produced during the Early Modern period in Western Europe.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Physical characteristics
- Material
- iron
- Dimensions
- 9.5" L x 4.5" W (24.1 cm x 11.4 cm)
Technical characteristics
- Mounting
- pierced holes for attachment
- Mechanism
- integrated lock with coiled spring lever
Design
- Features
- scrolling openwork edges, rectangular keyhole
- Decoration
- etched tulip motifs
- Surface texture
- stippled and crosshatched
Identification
- Source note
- Described from a single auction-house listing published on Invaluable (reproduced with Invaluable's permission). Details apply to that one example; other examples of the type may differ, and the listing is supplementary evidence, not authentication.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.