South German or Austrian, circa 1500

Lord Astor of Hever, Hever Castle, United Kingdom;
his sale, Sotheby's London, 6 May 1983, lot 215

Overall the condition of the lock is good, with wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. There is particular dirt behind the tracery at the top. There are several losses to the tracery, notably to three of the four 'branches' and above the slide bolt. There is some oxidisation to the metal. There are several dents and scratches, including at the bottom left corner. There is some warping to the metal in areas. The lock slides into the perspex stand but is not securely affixed. The perspex stand is in good condition with some wear including scratching.
"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."

RELATED LITERATURE
S. Canz, Schlüssel, Schlösser und Beschläge, cat. Bayerisches Nationalmuseum, Munich, Wuppertal, 1977, p. 53, no. 3