Impressive Louis XV Carriage-door Lock, Complete, With Superb Key

A large and handsome lock intended for the entrance of an urban mansion or apartment building, circa 1750.

The pedestrian door is operated by a latch and a small key, while the full carriage door is controlled by a magnificent 18.5 cm solid-shaft key. The key features a Delta arrowhead-shaped profile, an S-shaped bit, a six-tooth nose, and a bow formed by two opposing C-scrolls resting on a hemispherical boss with a turned base. A highly collectible key in its own right.

The quality of the lock itself is equally noteworthy, with finely cut internal components and an engraved fleur-de-lis within the mechanism (see photo).

The entire mechanism is functional, although some force is required to operate it.

A matching lock body and strike plate are already uncommon to find together. Remarkably, this set also retains its six original cut-iron mounting staples, making the ensemble particularly rare.

Large model
Dimensions: 62 × 34 × 8 cm
Weight: approximately 6 kg

Very fine untouched condition, with no significant defects noted. The small key is quite worn and may be of a later date.