Padlock and Key
Record status
Individual type · partial
This object is a padlock and key constructed from iron, specifically wrought iron. The lock features a wide, elongated curved shackle attached to a horizontal cylindrical barrel mounted over an iron casing with keyway apertures. The accompanying key has an elongated, flattened stem with a pierced suspension hole at the terminal end and a shaped bit designed to operate the internal locking mechanism.
The padlock measures 7 1/2 inches in length and 3 1/4 inches in width. The maker of the set is recorded as unknown. In museum documentation, the origin is associated with Cairo as well as Iran, with a recorded date of circa 1800.
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.
Historical context
The padlock exemplifies a Middle Eastern lock design that has been in use since before the 8th century. It was acquired in 1884 from the collection of Gaston de Saint-Maurice (1831–1905), an official at the Khedival court who lived in Cairo from 1868 to 1878. Saint-Maurice showcased his extensive collection at the 1878 Paris exhibition in the display entitled 'L'Egypte des Khalifes' before offering it for acquisition.
Identification
- Source note
- Transcribed from the Victoria and Albert Museum collection record for this single object; how far it represents a wider collectible type has not been independently verified.
- Museum object name
- Padlock and Key
- Museum object number
- 936-1884
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.