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Description: | Fine example of a copper-alloy rotary key of LMMC type VI. The key is complete and measures 104 mm long. It has a plain ring-bow which is 29 mm in diameter. A thin (1 mm thick) decorative band separates the collar from the stem. The stem is hollow, oval in section and 9 mm thick. The intricate bit is large, measuring 22 mm long and 9 mm wide. The bit is 'claw' like, with two symmetrical rows of teeth which curve inwards to form a circular recess. The teeth of the bit are of different sizes and on each side of the bit there are two large (7 mm long) ones in the centre and two smaller (4 mm long) ones to either side. The symmetrical nature of the bit indicates that this key was intended to open a lock from two sides. This, and the size of the key, indicates that it is a key from a door. The key is similar to an excavated example given by Ward (although this one has a solid stem) (1940, page 140-141; figure 12). The key is medieval and dates from the 14th to 15th centuries.
Original Image | Publisher: | http://finds.org.uk | Source: | Portable Antiquities | Identifier: | http://finds.org.uk/database/artefacts/r... | Go to resource |
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LOCK
An incomplete cast copper-alloy lock-bolt…
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