Padlock
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
16th century
This object is a padlock made in England, possibly in Morpeth, during the 16th century by an unknown maker. It is forged from wrought iron and features inscriptions reading 'MGC' and 'ISNO'. The inscriptions appear to be of a later date and may have been added in the 18th century, though they appear contemporary to the surface patination.
The lock comprises a broad, curved body with flaring outer edges, framed by raised stud-like details around the border. A prominent curved shackle loops into the top of the body. The central face is divided into rectangular sections flanking a central keyway cover or panel, with decorative floral or foliate motifs and inscribed lettering set into the panels.
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 is said formerly to have been used on the door of the condemned cell of the city gaol at Morpeth, Northumberland.
Physical characteristics
- Material
- Wrought iron
Technical characteristics
- Inscriptions
- Date: Text: Research required; Latest: Research required; Earliest: Research required; Note: The inscriptions appear to be of a later date and may have been added in the 18th century, though they appear to be contemporary to the patination.; Type: Research required; Medium: Research required; Method: Research required; Script: Research required; Content: 'MGC' and 'ISNO'; Language: Research required; Position: Research required; Inscriber: Name: Id: Research required; Text: Research required; Association: Id: Research required; Text: Research required; Description: Research required; Translation: Research required; Interpretation: Research required; Transliteration: Research required
- Maker recorded
- Unknown
- Place recorded
- Morpeth
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
- Museum object number
- M.304-1922
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.