Late 15th Century

Samarqand in Central Asia

20 x 17 Cm with Key

An exceptionally heavy and massive steel stylistic Timurid lock and key, the complete body is encircled and engraved with “Quranic inscriptions.

Each flank with recessed two bands of gold belts rounded in the middle of the body and inscriptions stylized with blossoms and foliage and bands with inscriptions.

In addition, a Quran’ic inscription is engraved on top of the centre where the handle slopes to the lock.

Although lesser in number than manuscripts, the Timurid Empire also produced quality pieces of metalwork and locks following Timur’s invasion of Persia. Steel, Iron, Brass, and Bronze, were commonly used as mediums.[21] Timurid silver-inlaid steel is often cited as being of particularly high quality. Additionally, gold and silver vessels required skilled craftsmanship.

In the Islamic period, Heart was also a centre for metalworking.[4] Many of the techniques and designs utilized had their origins in the Sasanian era. The earliest metalwork produced under the Timurids includes a bronze basin and six brass oil lamps, preserved at the Quran’ic in the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi inscriptions indicate that the basin was made specifically for this context.

Following the collapse of the Timurid Empire, several Iranian and Mesopotamian cultures co-opted Timurid metalwork.

Multiple objects made of precious metals were likely melted down to be repurposed.

From a distinguished Art Collector

Comes with a certificate from the Art Loss Register.