Lock with inscription

Korea

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 233

Created for security, locks are interesting objects in their melding of function and design. This lock has the typical shape and locking mechanism of late 19th- and early 20th-century locks. One side is left undecorated and the other is highly ornamented with an inscription and geometric motifs; thus the lock has a back and front with the key hole on the right. Even with the typical shape, this lock had a round key, which differs from the more prevalent L-shaped key. As objects used to protect precious goods, some inscriptions on locks express a wish for an abundance of fortune and material wealth, while others are auspicious messages about having a long life.

Lock with inscription, Copper alloy, Korea

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Lock with inscription, Copper alloy, Korea
Lock with inscription, Copper alloy, Korea
Lock with inscription, Copper alloy, Korea
Lock with inscription, Copper alloy, Korea

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