Puzzle padlock and key
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
ca. 1770-1800
This object is a puzzle padlock made of steel in France, dated to circa 1770–1800. The lock is crafted using chiselling and punching techniques. Its mechanical design features a concealed keyhole hidden behind a central rosette, while the key mechanism underneath is blocked by a concealed guard.
The steel padlock has an architectural, rectangular structure with decorative mouldings, triangular dentil-like elements, and a top shackle mechanism flanked by small finials. At the centre sits the prominent circular rosette ornament, below which is an applied foliate motif. The padlock measures 18.1 cm in height, 14.9 cm in width, and 6.4 cm in depth. An accompanying key belongs to the object, noted to have a modern replacement bow.
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
- Steel, chiselled and punched
- Dimensions
- Height: 18.1 cm; Width: 14.9 cm; Depth: 6.4 cm
Technical characteristics
- Maker recorded
- Unknown
- Place recorded
- France
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
- 971&A-1907
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.