Key Handle
Unknown Artist
1st–7th century
Medium
Copper alloy
Dimensions
Overall: 2 3/16 x 13/16 in. (5.6 x 2.1 cm)
Classification
Metalwork-Bronze
Culture
Roman
Department
Medieval Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Purchase, De Souhami Collection, Rogers Fund, 1906
Accession Number
06.176.52
Art Historical Context
This delicate **Key Handle**, crafted by an unknown Roman artist between the 1st and 7th centuries, is fine example of ancient metalwork preserved in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Medieval Art. Made from durable copper alloy—often likened to bronze for its corrosion resistance—this compact piece measures just 2 3/16 x 13/16 inches (5.6 x 2.1 cm), small enough to fit comfortably in the hand yet testament to Roman ingenuity in everyday objects. Roman metalworkers excelled in casting techniques using alloys like this, producing functional items that blended utility with subtle artistry. Keys ...