KEY (LOCKING)

A probably post medieval cast copper alloy key, dating to c AD 1500 - 1700. The key is incomplete with only the openwork bow and handle surviving and part of the iron shank. The bit is entirely missing. A small acorn shape knop projects (c11.25mm in height) from the centre of the outer edge of the open work bow. The bow itself is a semi circular form raised on two branches which emanate from the main shaft below. The two branches, together with a central piercing in the bow itself create an open work shape which is similar to a key hole.

The openwork bow is situated on top of a crescent shaped base and triple ring collar, which is oval in section. The upper part of the collar is a narrower (3.83mm in height) transverse circumferental ridge or ring, the lower part is wider at 7.10mm and has been pierced with an iron rivet c 4.26mm in diameter. Below this is another narrower ridge or ring, echoing the first one. Beyond this the style and shape is obscured by iron corrosion. The shank appears to emerge from the handle as a rectagular shape section but the key has broken at this point at an early date.

The item mostly has a greenish patina, however where modern damage has occurred, there are gold-coloured areas which may indicate the handle be made of brass. The object has an overall length of 66.30mm, is 31.8mm wide, 13.12mm thick and weighs 53.86grams.

Several similar key handles are recorded on the PAS database, dating to the Roman period (LIN-04E834, SOM-583BC0). However, the patina and finish on this example suggests the later date (see SUR-911600)