Nepalese Bronze Turtle Functional Lock

This deceptively heavy bronze tortoise is not only a useful padlock but was also considered an attractive and interesting status symbol. As locks became more common married women were made the key bearers wearing keys in a prominent place to show her responsibility or key power.

This lock is 5 inches long when closed and 3 inches wide. It can be opened and locked with the 2 keys and it can be partially locked and opened by the head of the turtle - a classic example of the traditional technology used to create this lock. If you see below for other images you can see the auspicious symbols crafted on the belly of the turtle.