PADLOCK

An incomplete Medieval copper-alloy barb-spring padlock (c. 1200-c. 1400).

This padlock is in the form of an elongated hollow or cylindrical case or barrel which is hexagonal in cross-section. It has an integral projecting hasp to one end. The hasp, with a circular perforation, is flat and 'L' shaped and projects out at an angle of 90° from the case. A copper-alloy tapering pin, oval in cross-section, passes through the edge of the hasp and moves freely. Both faces of the hasp have linear grooves and ridges as decoration. An integrally cast rectangular bar extends from the top of the hasp running parallel to the case and tapering to a worn point. The keyhole, level with the worn point, has four square perforations around a square centre. The face opposite the hasp has longitudinal incised decoration consisting of two pairs of lines enclosing two zigzag lines which enclose a single longitudinal incised line.

The padlock has a shiny green patina where the surface is not corroded. The breaks are old.

This padlock would have had a barb-spring mechanism opened by a barrel padlock key and its size may indicate use on a casket or chest.

Overall length: 36.0mm; maximum diameter of case: 13.0mm; length of hasp: 11.4mm; width of hasp: 13.1mm; thickness of hasp: 3.9mm. Weight: 12.18g.

A discussion about these types of padlocks and how they worked has been published (Egan 1998: 91-103; Ottaway and Rogers 2002: 2865-2871).

Egan, G. 1998. The Medieval Household Daily Living c.1150-c.1450. Medieval finds from Excavations in London 6. London. Museum of London: The Stationery Office.

Ottaway, P. and Rogers, N., 2002 Craft, Industry and Everyday Life: Finds From Medieval York York: York Archaeological Trust and CBA.