German Castle Locks

The period from the 14th through the 17th century was one of artistic accomplishment by superb craftsmen. Locksmiths were skilled metalworkers who were becoming internationally famous. They were invited to construct special locks for noblemen throughout Europe. Using designs of coats-of-arms and symbolic shapes, they devised intricate wards and bits for locks and keys and were inspired to produce increasingly ornamental locks to harmonize with the architecture of their clients' estates or castles. However, there were few improvements in locking mechanisms. Security depended upon intricacies such as hidden keyholes, trick devices, and complicated warding.