Padlock in the form of a lion

Bronze padlock in the form of a lion. The lion is standing on all fours with its tail held high. Its facial features and rich mane are finely incised, while its ears are modelled in relief. There is a notch in the animal’s chest for the key. Turning the key locks or unlocks the padlock via the bow that runs above the animal. Surviving objects of this kind are rare. Zoomorphic locks are an expression of good taste, which is applied to every aspect of life, including security.

PUBLICATION
Brouskari M. 2007. Catalogue no. 14, in Skampavias K.—Chatzidakis N. (eds), Paul and Alexandra Canellopoulos Museum. Byzantine and Post-Byzantine Art, Athens, 30.