Antique European Iron Forged Lock Plate appropriated as wall art with an exquisite Acanthi pattern in relief

Anonymous
Northern Europe; 19th century
Iron

Approximate size:  9.75 (h) x 8.75 (w) x .4 (d) in.

The present lock plate is an object-of-art perfectly suited for a curiosity cabinet or for display as wall art (we suggest a velvet backing and an antique frame and are glad to provide or source these upon request).   

This exquisitely designed lock plate features a series of four applied low-relief bursting acanthi extending from tendrils that bloom from an anchoring acanthus situated just beneath the key hole opening.  The eloquent design flows harmoniously within the truncated pyramidal shape of the lock plate.  The lower margin of the plate features a lovely scalloped design with a handsomely beveled edge while the upper margin is surmounted by an expertly conceived rope-moulded border in high relief.  The evenly spread patina along the surface of the plate, due to natural aging, is an additional highlight to this otherwise practical and functional object beautified into a standalone work-of-art.  

Condition commensurate with age.  Minor rubbing along the margins and particularly the upper corners as well as slight residue from previous mounting in its original context. Slight age-related patina along the surface areas.