Antique Japanese Fish Padlock Copper Alloy Bronze Figural Lock Edo Meiji 19th C

Antique Japanese Figural Fish Padlock – Copper Alloy / Bronze – 19th Century

A fascinating and highly unusual antique figural padlock, modelled as a three-dimensional fish or aquatic creature and believed to be Japanese, probably dating to the 19th century, during the late Edo to early Meiji period.

The lock is exceptionally characterful, with a wonderfully sculptural body, prominent raised eyes, broad mouth, textured surface decoration and projecting fins. The entire exterior, including the substantial elongated shackle, is non-magnetic and appears to be a copper alloy, possibly bronze or a high-copper brass.

The large opening at the mouth forms the key aperture and provides a remarkable view of the traditional internal locking mechanism. Inside are substantial hand-worked leaf-spring components which would originally have been operated by a specially shaped key to release the shackle.

Animal-form locks are a documented feature of historic Japanese metalwork. The collection of Tokyo University of the Arts includes Edo-period fish, catfish, crab and shrimp-shaped locks, including a documented fish-form example constructed from forged iron and brass.

This example displays considerable evidence of traditional hand manufacture, including irregular hand-finished surfaces and internal components, individually worked details and extensive age-related patination.

The surface has developed a particularly attractive deep brown-black patina, with warmer copper/golden tones visible naturally on raised and worn areas. It has not been polished, preserving its aged appearance.

Measurements:

* Length: approximately 11.5 cm
* Width: approximately 5.4 cm
* Maximum depth: approximately 4 cm
* Weight: approximately 164 g
* Material: copper alloy, possibly bronze/high-copper brass
* Origin: attributed to Japan
* Date: probably 19th century, late Edo to early Meiji period
* Key: not present

Condition:
Very good antique condition considering its age, with substantial age-related patination, surface wear, marks and irregularities consistent with its construction and use. Please examine all photographs carefully as they form an important part of the description. The original key is absent and the lock has therefore not been tested for operation.

An unusual piece of historic metalwork with considerable decorative appeal, particularly interesting to collectors of antique locks, Japanese metalwork, Edo-period objects and unusual figural antiques.