Welcome to Keys of History!
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or merely a fancier of “objects d’ art” from ages past, you’re about to indulge in a visual feast . . . and one that will likely nudge you to return time and time again.
This collection reflects an ongoing, labor of love, bordering on sheer addiction for well over 20 years. The storied tales of each acquisition and the new friendships forged along the way have enriched my life immeasurably . . . and still the quest continues for that ‘Key of all keys!’
So zoom in and savor these magnificently sculpted treasures, masterfully crafted during centuries past. Each key is pictured from multiple angles, in hopes of creating a ‘virtual presence’, as if the key was being relished in your own hands.
As you peruse this gallery of fascinating keys, you’ll be smitten with the artistry that spans centuries of stylistic evolution, featuring keys from humble origins to those richly adorned and ornately embellished . . . ones truly befitting the royalty and rulers of kingdoms past.
Through the ages, the mere image of a key worn on one’s belt or garment, reflected societal import, personal status and pride of ownership. Keys of great significance were often commissioned by wealthy patrons and ruling gentry with the finest craftsmen of the period. Many Kings of yesteryear marveled at their magnificence and hence, elevated the art of lock and keysmithing to that of the great master sculptors and painters of the Renaissance. And history clearly confirms that even a few French kings embraced the esteemed art of locksmithing as an impassioned hobby.
The rich imagery and symbolism of keys have laced the literature and architectural heritage of world cultures since long, long ago. It was during the Renaissance that the art of lock and key making reached its zenith, yielding timeless treasures that still impart their mesmerizing power upon those of us who dare glimpse their majesty and charm today.
Enjoy your journey and always remember that the key to truth is by far the most desirable key of all . . . for ultimately, the key to the kingdom of God should be at the very heart of our life’s quest.
I have always deemed key# 2418 below to be the 'crown jewel' of my collection . . . an exquisitely sculpted, figural key that I've saved until now . . . it's the very last, superlative key I own . . . what more need I say!
It was this magnificent specimen that fired my inner passion to build a world class collection.
I'm inclined to believe that the warrior themed, figural bow is French, although it might be Spanish or Italian as well. All had made invasionary follies into the third world and this figure gives the impression of being from such areas . . . at least that is my impression, judging from his facial features and the long hair queue . . . the artistic execution of detail is nothing short of brilliant!
This magnificent, figural bow seems to portray a native deity rising from a foliar cornucopia. He has a muscular torso with a pair of symbolic wings arising from his shoulder blades to sweep up and over to converge on top of his head. The reverse shows his hair made into a long plait or queue which tails down into the foliar cornucopia. His arms are spread out with his hands resting on the foliage.
The quality of this sculpted creation is extraordinary, the patina of the steel is deep and glowing, warm and smooth to the touch. Although the bit is simple with a single cleft, its foot is nicely domed and in perfect alignment with the bow.
This little masterpiece was no doubt commissioned for something of extreme import, possibly a royal jewelry chest or a majestic coffer of sorts. Assigning a date to this key is difficult, but I would guess it to be 18th century.
Measuring 3 3/8" in length, this key is uncommonly substantial for its size and its highly ornate and unique bow is one of the most stunning I've ever seen!
I've always envisioned this key becoming a unique, 'one of a kind' pendant, adorning a magnificently designed necklace for the lady you love! Designer key necklaces have been the rage for years, classic and always in style and today they seem to be more popular than ever . . . just imagine having a real masterpiece key instead of a newly fashioned one, decorating a necklace you have custom designed for the love of your life!
It could be worn with either side showing and would likely garner endless compliments and adoration . . . it just might be that perfect touch for a super special birthday or anniversary . . . an expression of love never, ever to be forgotten!
