Antique Victorian early 20th century brass small padlock with original key rare!  2 lovely engraved stars and the word improved 4 cm tall 3 cm wide 1 cm depth This lovely little padlock has the original key turns etc unfortunately I can't get it to open I think with a bit of lubricant etc may open don't think it matters greatly as really just a collectible or decorative item 
Padlocks have a long history, originating in ancient civilizations and evolving through various eras. Early padlocks were crafted from wood or metal in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, with rudimentary mechanisms for securing doors and containers. The Romans are credited with significant advancements, including the invention of more complex sliding bolt locks. Padlocks were also used in medieval Europe, with blacksmiths creating various metal padlocks, and were a specialty of the early Middle Ages. The Vikings were known for their padlock craftsmanship, particularly in the 8th to 11th centuries. 
Key points in padlock history:
Ancient Origins:Padlocks date back to ancient civilizations like Egypt, Greece, and Rome, with examples found in Nineveh dating back to around 2000 BC. 
Roman Innovations:
The Romans developed more complex sliding bolt locks and are considered to have made significant advancements in padlock technology. 
Medieval Craftsmanship:
Blacksmiths in medieval Europe crafted various metal padlocks, with Vikings being particularly skilled in their construction. 
Early Padlock Design:
Early padlocks often consisted of a wooden or metal body, a shackle, and a key mechanism for securing a bolt. 
Evolution of Materials and Mechanisms:
Padlocks evolved from simple wooden or bronze constructions to more sophisticated metal designs with various mechanisms for securing the shackle. 
Modern Padlocks:
Modern padlocks include various types like combination padlocks, electronic padlocks with features like biometric scanners, and modular designs that allow for servicing and rekeying.