Antique Door hardware - Rare XL Antique Warded Rim Lock - Two Original Keys - 18th century

Extremely Rare XL Antique Warded Rim Lock with Two Original Keys – circa 1700
In excellent working condition

A museum-worthy and extremely rare XL antique Dutch rim lock / box lock, originating from Delft, Netherlands. Recovered from the attic of a historic townhouse in the Delft city centre dating to around 1650.

This is not an ordinary antique door lock. The sheer size, weight, complete state and exceptionally elaborate construction make this a remarkable museum quality surviving example of historic Dutch locksmithing. At approx. 3.75 kg, the lock is extraordinarily heavy and consists almost entirely of substantial hand-forged iron components.

The lock has an unusually sophisticated multi-stage mechanism for its period. It is complete, tested and in excellent working order, with both original keys included.

The large original key operates the main mechanism in two directions. When turned clockwise, it operates the upper locking bolt; when turned counter-clockwise, it engages the two additional locking bolts. The smaller key independently operates the upper locking bolt. In addition, a remarkable sliding mechanism on the top of the lock provides another means of operating this upper bolt.

The result is a surprisingly complex locking system combining three substantial locking bolts with additional independent operation. The mechanism is a fascinating example of how historic locksmiths could create sophisticated security systems entirely through hand-forged mechanical engineering.

The construction is particularly impressive: thick forged iron plates, individually made internal components, large forged mounting lugs and traditional hand-finished fasteners. The traces of the smith's work remain clearly visible throughout the mechanism, giving the lock an authentic and highly tactile character.
The lock has been carefully cleaned and protected while retaining its historic character.

Historical context
Locks of this type were an important part of the security of historic Dutch houses, workshops and commercial buildings. Before industrial mass production, locks were produced individually by skilled blacksmiths and locksmiths, with the mechanism adapted to the requirements of the building and owner. Complex warded mechanisms and multiple bolts provided increased security while remaining entirely mechanical.

Details / Specifications
Type: Antique rim lock / box lock / warded lock
Origin: Delft, Netherlands
Period: Approximately 1700 (approximately 325 years old)
Material: Hand-forged iron
Weight: approx. 3.75 kg
Dimensions: approx. 30.5 × 19 × 9 cm (h × w × d)
Keys: 2 original keys included
Mechanism: Complex multi-bolt locking mechanism
Operation: Fully tested and very well working
Upper bolt: Operated by both the small key and the large key; also operable via the original top sliding mechanism
Condition: Excellent museum quality condition with authentic age-related surface and patina

A museum-worthy piece of historic locksmithing and an exceptionally rare example of early Dutch ironwork. The combination of XL size, extraordinary weight, complex mechanism, Delft provenance and two original keys makes this a particularly special collector's piece.