Key - Antique key

05
days
14
hours
20
minutes
22
seconds
Starting bid
€ 1
No reserve price
Paul Wullems
Expert
Selected by Paul Wullems

He accumulated 18 years' experience, worked as junior specialist at Sotheby’s and managed Kunsthandel Jacques Fijnaut.

Estimate  € 150 - € 180
No bids placed

Catawiki Buyer Protection

Your payment’s safe with us until you receive your object.View details

Trustpilot 4.4 | 128581 reviews

Rated Excellent on Trustpilot.

Antique forged-iron key from Germany, dating to circa 1800–1850, with a hollow shank, a centrally moulded knot and a complex-cut bit, about 14 cm long and with a deep aged patina.

AI-assisted summary

Description from the seller

Magnificent large antique wrought-iron key, dating very likely to the 18th century.

This piece shows all the characteristics of traditional artisanal craftsmanship: hollow forged shank, centrally moulded knot, and a panneton with a complex-cut profile made with a file. The whole reflects an old know-how linked to artistic locksmithing.

The panneton, with two levels and elaborate cuts, indicates a high-quality grooved lock, probably intended for a substantial interior door, a chest, or a characterful wardrobe.

The deep black patina is perfectly consistent with its age. No aggressive cleaning has been performed, preserving its authenticity.

Dimensions:
Length: approximately 14 cm
Material: wrought iron
Condition: very good antique condition, wear and patina in keeping with age

This type of large antique key is particularly sought after by clockwork collectors? artisans? locksmith enthusiasts, lovers of old architectural objects, and decorators looking for an authentic piece for a cabinet of curiosities or a distinctive interior.

Authentic object, not restored, not altered.

A strong decorative piece, rich in history.

Magnificent large antique wrought-iron key, dating very likely to the 18th century.

This piece shows all the characteristics of traditional artisanal craftsmanship: hollow forged shank, centrally moulded knot, and a panneton with a complex-cut profile made with a file. The whole reflects an old know-how linked to artistic locksmithing.

The panneton, with two levels and elaborate cuts, indicates a high-quality grooved lock, probably intended for a substantial interior door, a chest, or a characterful wardrobe.

The deep black patina is perfectly consistent with its age. No aggressive cleaning has been performed, preserving its authenticity.

Dimensions:
Length: approximately 14 cm
Material: wrought iron
Condition: very good antique condition, wear and patina in keeping with age

This type of large antique key is particularly sought after by clockwork collectors? artisans? locksmith enthusiasts, lovers of old architectural objects, and decorators looking for an authentic piece for a cabinet of curiosities or a distinctive interior.

Authentic object, not restored, not altered.

A strong decorative piece, rich in history.

Details

Era
1400-1900
Weight
70 g
Iron type
Wrought iron
No. of items
1
Country of Origin
Germany
Material
Iron
Condition
Good condition - used with small signs of aging & blemishes
Height
14 cm
Width
5 cm
Depth
1 cm
Estimated period
1800-1850
Title additional information
Antique key
Sold by
BelgiumVerified
Private

Similar objects

For you in

Antiques & Classic Furniture