A rare English brass 'Cavalier' detector lock signed by John Wilkes of Birmingham last quarter 17th century

with a fretted steel key, the Cavaliers leg with 'Kick' mechanism to reveal a keyhole, the mechanism incorporating a catch in the form of the cavaliers hat to release the 'kick' (currently inactive) and activate a numbered indicator disc, the main plate engraved:
'If I had ye gift of tongue, I would declare & do no wrong, who they are ye come by stealth to impare my Lady's Wealth, John Wilkes e Birmingham, Fecit'
together with the original brass receiver

From a Private Collection and thence by descent

This superb lock will benefit from some gentle restoration. The hat of the cavalier should tilt and this is stuck and will require repair. Similarly the rotating disc has stopped and will require restoration. The brass knob handle is a replacement. The mechanism could do with a clean. On screw head is missing. A wonderful object.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

For comparison see a similar lock in the collection of the Victoria & Albert Museum, London (M.109-1926). This lock is illustrated by Rupert Gentile & Rachel Field, English Domestic Brass, London, 1975, fig. 319. Interestingly the V&A lock features the words 'my Master's Wealth' as opposed to 'my Lady's Wealth' which is engraved in the offered lot.

Both form part of small group of signed 17th century English locks which are incredibly rare and represent a highpoint in early lock making. The high quality and whimsical engraving, complex mechanism and compact size, evidenced in this instance, meant such devices were bespoke and expensive and thus the preserve of a wealthy elite. In 1654 diarist John Evelyn was to write, rather romantically, that sophisticated lock mechanisms were 'rare contrivances' and regarded as technological marvels, 'esteem'd a curiositie even among foraine princes'.

John Wilkes (d.1733) was an accomplished artisan working in Birmingham, before it blossomed into the huge metalworking centre it was to become in the 18th century. He managed to create technologically advanced devices and introduce great humour too, often through the use of verse. This also points to a skill in self-promotion as his 'detector' locks are usually signed and distinctive enough to make it likely that he would have acquired quite a reputation.

For other examples of locks by Wilkes see those by him at Berkley Castle, Gloucestershire and Sherborne Castle, Dorset.