Double dolphin barrel lock

A carved fruitwood barrel lock with a decoration of two leaning dolphins painted in dark green. The two scaled tails are folded over the back as they are tied by a band just above the brass screw. The open mouths with pronounced eyebrows show three small teeth.

The barrel locks or thunderbolt keys are, in most cases, simple pieces of wood that close the trapdoor leading to the interior of the cask. This access allows, in the spring after bottling, to clean the limestone deposits against the walls.

The locks are generally carved with animals that have a link with the liquid (the wine) they protect. They are often dolphins, mermaids or tritons.

Period: 18th century

Dimensions :
Height : 45,2 cm
Width : 16,4 cm

Condition : small missing pieces