3-009-083 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The International Exhibition: Hobbs and Ashley's gothic locks and keys, 1862. 'The material is hammered iron and polished steel, laid, as flat designs of this character will allow, upon the lock cases, which in the specimens we engrave are of walnut and rose woods. The keys, which are placed before each lock, are of a highly ornamental character, the bows being formed on the same principles of simple design as the ornament upon the locks. Mediaeval models show what scope there is for the ornamentalist in key-handles without affecting the ease with which the article may he used; and Messrs. Hobbs, having worked in this spirit, cannot fail to add to their reputation for mechanical ingenuity a character for taste and skill in ornamentation...Messrs. Hobbs and Co. have another claim to public notice from the value of their labours in machine-made locks. Their manufactory is most extensive, suites of locks being entirely prepared by machinery. The locks so produced are greatly superior to the old hand-made locks, and have the additional value of greater security combined with perfect cheapness'. From "Illustrated London News", 1862.