German Padlock with Key, 17th/18th C

Description

This type of barrel-bodied padlock was used primarily in Germany from the 16th-18^th Century. They featured an iron plug with leaf springs, which secured the shackle. The long, straight key would enter the lock body at the opposite end and the shape on its end would depress the springs and push the plug out to release the shackle. This example features a heavy 1 1/4” diameter by 4 1/8” long cylindrical iron body with thick ribs on three sides and heavy shackle secured with a ring hinge. Locking plug with four flat leaf springs. Original flat 6 1/2” key with curved and slotted end. Lock retains much of its original olive green paint. Mechanism functions, but is tight.