Antique 17th Century Wrought Iron Padlock Mounted on Wooden Stand.

Wonderful forging padlock more than four hundred years old. This item was made in the 17th century and keeps the same solid and functional beauty from the time it was forged. All its components are original and in good condition, though the mechanism is blocked and cannot be operated. Even so the padlock is a great decorative piece and a first class antique, perfect to adorn a rooms wall or a showcase full of valuable curiosities. The delicate engravings which embellish the iron surface are highly remarkable, and they make a surprising contrast with the rustic and solid look of the padlock itself.The mechanism has a central cylindrical body reinforced with flat rings in the center and in both ends. These rings are decorated with a simple engraved motive of squares and dots, while the cylinder itself bears no decoration at all. At the right end of this piece we can see a mobile heart-shaped piece inserted, and it is ended by a rod which enters the chains final ring. This chain is nailed to the wooden plank. The mentioned mobile piece has a square form in its center that is delicately engraved with small curves and dots. The padlocks left end is more attractive and is made up of a central axis decorated with engraved flowers, flanked by two symmetrical triangular wings adorned with a zigzag motive.Over the main body there is a horizontal bolt that goes through two solid independent pieces attached to the wooden plank. Its left end enters a vertical piece that comes out of the padlocks cylindrical body, while to the right the bolt bows downwards and enters the right end of the cylinder. The whole set is mounted on a raw solid wooden plank, with unrefined borders and full of rustic charm. Its light brown tone makes a beautiful contrast with the dark brown color of the iron, which boasts an attractive reddish patina. As well as a striking decorative item, this padlock is a rare mechanical antique; a real museum piece which will increase the value of the best collection of curious ancient articles.Measurements (with wooden plank): Width: 430 mm. Height: 230 mm.