This precious lock in mercury-gilt bronze and meticulously chiseled with sphinxes and leaf motifs dates back to the 18th century, Louis XVI period.
It probably served the door of an ancient French Palazzo or castle, today it can be restored to its original function or represent a rare and precious collectibles to showcase proudly.
Obtained with the ancient technique of lost wax casting with profuse use of ormolu bronze and finely chiseled decorations in high relief and burin, it is a work worthy of a master goldsmith.
Rectangular in shape, it is framed by deep acanthus leaf carvings. The keyhole is ideally inserted into a lyre-shaped inlaid held at the sides by two sphinxes. From this central ornamental motif, scrolled branches flowers and leaves bloom and branch out. The whole surface, worked with a burin, enhances the depth and precision in the execution of the carvings.
The ornamental designs so fashionable during the 18th century were then taken up again throughout the Empire period until the beginning of the 19th century, especially the sphinxes, a reference to the military campaign in Egypt undertaken by Napoleon Bonaparte.

The lock has a knob, also in gilded bronze, which when sliding allows the latch to be closed and opened.

It is not supplied with a key but it could be reproduced with a cast.

Dimensions: L. 20, H. 10, D. 6 cm.