Key
Unknown Artist
13th or 14th century (?)
Medium
Iron
Dimensions
Overall: 2 5/8 x 1 x 1/4 in. (6.7 x 2.5 x 0.7 cm)
Classification
Metalwork-Iron
Culture
French (?)
Department
Medieval Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Purchase, De Souhami Collection, Rogers Fund, 1906
Accession Number
06.176.92
Art Historical Context
This modest iron key, dating to the 13th or 14th century and possibly of French origin, offers a tangible glimpse into medieval daily life and craftsmanship. Measuring just 2⅝ x 1 x ¼ inches, its compact form belies its practical purpose: likely securing doors, chests, or gates in a world where locks protected valuables amid feudal uncertainties. Acquired by The Metropolitan Museum of Art in1906 through the De Souhami Collection and Fund, it resides in the Medieval Art department, classified as iron metalwork—a testament to its enduring artistic merit. Forged from iron, a durable yet challeng...