Decorative ornament - Italy

Ancient iron key forged in Italy from the 17th century. Entirely handmade with an elegant pierced handle in scrollwork and a hollow shank. The bit/warding features a complex workmanship typical of the surgings for important artifacts, including chests. It preserves a patina consistent with its age and the traces of artisanal forging, and is 12 cm long, a rare item sought after by collectors.