By Kiyomi Mino ‘16, Student Assistant to the Curator
German Door Fitting, seventeenth century, 1894.104.1a
In today’s society, sleek and discrete high tech devices controlled by complex computer coding and identity verification systems ensure that only those with special approval have access to privileged places. While today’s “locks” purposely have an inconspicuous design so as not to attract the attention of intruders, this seventeenth-century German door fitting with its intricate carvings and complex mechanisms immediately draws one closer.
Noblemen commissioned renowned locksmiths to create door fittings for their estates and castles. The craftsmen often engraved coats-of-arms and elaborate floral motifs to match their lavish homes. On this door fitting, the engraved coat of arms belongs to the Prince Bishop of Eichstatt (1561-1612) of Bavaria. The cross above the coat of arms and the spiral cone shaped lock cover are reminiscent of a Bavarian church dome also reflects Bavaria’s affiliation with the Holy Roman Empire. The chiseled scrolling foliage on the doorplate may recall the Prince Bishop’s renowned palace garden filled with flowers from all over the world.
Detail: German Door Fitting, seventeenth century, 1894.104.1a
The stylized faces and figures hidden in the chiseled foliage remind visitors to exercise caution as they cross the threshold as they may be watched. The elaborate Bavarian decoration and mechanics of the door fitting point to the special nature of interiors as hidden and protected, open only to those who hold its key.