KEY (LOCKING)

Wrought iron key of probable later medieval – early modern date (1400 - 1800). The key is incomplete and broadly sub rectangular in plan. It consists of an iron oval shaped incomplete loop, which has broken as a result of corrosion. This loop extends into an oval section iron bar (shank) which tapers slightly along its length. From the lower edge of the shank a sub-rectangular bit projects. The bit of the key is corroded and is broadly rectangular with a single cleft (rectangular shaped cut) dividing the bit into two parts. This cleft has a single horizontal incision through it forming a broadly cruciform shape. There is no evidence of linear groves or other marks on the bit, although these may have been obscured by the corrosion product. The bit measures 24.1mm length, 22.3mm depth and is 6.4mm thick. The overall key measures 132.3mm length, 44.2mm width, is a maximum of 11.3 mm thick, and weighs 67.98 grams.

The key is a mid brown colour with a corroded and abraded surface. Where abrasion has removed the upper layers of iron corrosion a mid brown purple coloured metal is revealed. The abrasion has caused the key to become slightly asymmetrical in plan and profile. A direct parallel for this key has not been found. However the size of the key would suggest it was used in a rotary door lock, rather than for a casket. Door locks also tend to have a solid shank. The style of key continues for a long period of time (from the 14th century). It is likely that this example is post medieval in date (probably post 1500), but without other dating evidence (such as pottery) it is relatively difficult to be certain. A number of similar rotary keys are shown in G. Egan’s ‘Medieval Households’ pages 111-119.