Key
The decoration of Gothic locks and keys was often elaborate and of the highest standard of workmanship. These examples offer a glimpse of the creativity and inventiveness of medieval ironsmiths who forged such objects. Some scholars have suggested that the greatly expanded use of locks was the result of the increasing urbanization of life and the new emphasis on material wealth and private ownership that characterized the later Middle Ages.
Artwork Details
- Title: Key
- Date: 13th or 14th century (?)
- Culture: French (?)
- Medium: Copper alloy
- Dimensions: Overall: 1 3/4 x 1 1/16 x 1/4 in. (4.5 x 2.7 x 0.6 cm)
- Classification: Metalwork-Latten
- Credit Line: Purchase, De Souhami Collection, Rogers Fund, 1906
- Object Number: 06.176.84
- Curatorial Department: Medieval Art and The Cloisters
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Jean de Liège
ca. 1381
French
ca. 1150
French
ca. 1250
South French
ca. 1050–1100
French
second quarter 14th century
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