Key

Object Details

Label Text

Keys are symbols of wealth and status. Both locks and keys may be highly decorated with openwork designs and hammered engravings.

Description

Lock with a basic shape composed of elaborate and intricate cutwork. It is decorated with engraved motifs. On the back, a linear, geometric emblem is part of the smith's signature. A small loop is attached at the top.

Provenance

Private European collection, collected Niger or Mali, 1959-1971 to 1993

Exhibition History

Africa: The Art of a Continent, Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, New York, June 5-September 29, 1996

Art from the Forge, National Museum of African Art, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C., September 6, 1995-January 2, 1996

Published References

Loughran, Kristyne. 1995. Art from the Forge. Washington D.C.: National Museum of African Art, Smithsonian Institution, p. 18, no. 11.

Content Statement

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Data Source

National Museum of African Art

Maker

Moor artist

Date

Early to mid-20th century

Credit Line

Museum purchase and gift of Mrs. Florence Selden in memory of Carl L. Selden

Medium

Silver alloy, copper alloy

Dimensions

H x W x D: 21.6 x 6.1 x 0.6 cm (8 1/2 x 2 3/8 x 1/4 in.)

Type

Sculpture