Lock
Unknown Artist
11th century or later
Medium
Cast copper alloy
Dimensions
Overall: 1 7/16 x 1 7/8 x 9/16 in. (3.6 x 4.8 x 1.4 cm)
Classification
Metalwork-Copper alloy
Culture
Byzantine (?)
Department
Medieval Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Estate of Lawrence J. Majewski, 1999
Accession Number
1999.519.14
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite little lock, crafted from cast copper alloy, hails from the 11th century or later and exemplifies the refined metalworking traditions of the Medieval period. Measuring just 1 7/16 x 1 7/8 x 9/16 inches, its compact size suggests it secured a small chest, door, or reliquary—practical yet artfully made for someone of means. The use of casting in copper alloy, a durable and malleable medium, allowed for intricate detailing, highlighting the technical prowess of medieval artisans who could produce precise, functional objects with decorative flair. Possibly from Byzantine culture, t...