The Art of a Gifted Blacksmith
Striking Escutcheon and Latch 

Likely New England, possibly Connecticut, 18th century.

Wrought in iron by a gifted blacksmith. Impressive in design and scale, this folk art work likely fronted the main door of a stately home, or meeting house or other important building.

The blacksmith showcased his skill and the desire of his client with a design that far surpasses most, with a stylized heart or scrolled leaf form that terminates at each end with curled returns. Superb condition and historic surface. May be displayed decoratively or installed as a working latch on a period or reproduction door.

Overall length about 21 inches. See Antique Iron, Schiffer, page 78, fig B for a related piece yet lacking the return curls.