Chemical Composition: ICP-MS/AAA data from sample, Brass:
Cu, 85; Sn, 1.36; Pb, 1.43; Zn, 11.65; Fe, 0.17; Ni, 0.1; Ag, 0.03; Sb, 0.04; As, 0.2; Bi, less than 0.025; Co, 0.022; Au, less than 0.01; Cd, less than 0.001
J. Riederer
Technical Observations: Several areas have been cleaned down to a smooth brown patina, but most areas are slightly obscured by a layer of green malachite with underlying red cuprite. The surface is fairly well preserved, although somewhat obscured by corrosion products.
The object is intact, although some loss of surface detail has occurred. The key and ring were made separately by lost-wax casting. The ring was inserted into an opening at the end of the key, which was then hammered slightly closed to secure the ring. The designs in the surface appear to be engraved. The thickness of the elements and their complex three-dimensional shape give the impression they were cast. Deformations at the mouths of the holes indicate they were drilled, and the grooves are striated and appear to have been cut by abrasive cold working. The key teeth and end hole were also cut by cold working. The key shaft was closed around the (integral) pin of the hinged ring by pressure or hammering.
Carol Snow and Henry Lie (submitted 2002, updated 2010)
